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The Fruit of the Spirit – Wrap Up

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As followers of Jesus Christ, we can expect to be changed. Jesus works on us from the inside out, and that transformation can be seen in the fruit our lives bear.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Galatians 5:22-23
Join us for a 9 part series on the fruit of the Spirit at DoNotDepart.com

We have spent this month taking a deeper look at the Fruit of the Spirit described in Galatians 5. Here are all of the posts:

Love – In Ali’s post on love, she wrote, “If I follow only my feelings, those same feelings that lead me to loving well can lead me into not loving at all. Instead of following only feelings, I need to choose to follow God.”

Joy – I shared that “Happiness is not a fruit of the Spirit. So how is joy different from happiness? Joy does not depend on the circumstances around us.”

Peace – In her post about four ways to find peace, Lisa wrote, “Whether or not you are feeling at peace today, thank God anyway that peace has been planted deep inside you.”

Patience – Jaime shared, “Exercising patience, accepting trouble without getting angry, can only be done when we let go of control.”

Kindness – In her post on kindness, Jaime wrote, “The kindness developed through our time with the Spirit has the power to ease pain, heal wounds, bridge gaps, and restore relationships.”

Goodness – Cheli wrote, “God wants His goodness to be born in us, so others might see and experience Him.”

Faithfulness – Cheli explained that “Faithfulness, as a Fruit of the Spirit, is found in someone who steadfastly holds to the truth about God and acts on it, always pointing others to the same truth.”

Gentleness – Ali gave us a definition of Biblical gentleness. “Gentleness: mildness with strength. A powerful humility that has a divine origin and can only operate through faith. It starts and finishes by God’s direction and empowerment”

Self-Control – Cheli reminded us that “In a world that sees self-control as shackles, God’s purpose for self-control is life-giving freedom.“

As we cling to Jesus Christ, our heavenly gardener, He will bring this fruit to maturity in our lives!

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The Fruit of the Spirit: Self-control

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Selfies, self-help, and self-consciousness are all the rage today. Pervasive is the phrase, “What’s in it for me?” Contrary to our culture’s obsession with the gratification of self, is another “self” word. Self-control. In a world that sees self-control as shackles, God’s purpose for self-control is life-giving freedom.

All this month at Do Not Depart we’ve been focused on the Fruit of the Spirit, and now we’ve come to the last one.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. (Galatians 5:22-23)

Definition

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon defines “self-control” (temperance, moderation, self-restraint are synonyms) as “the virtue of one who masters his desires and passions, especially sensual appetites.” This definition makes me think of “will power” and “self-denial,” and I know that left to control myself, I fail miserably. We can’t keep our desires and passions in check on our own. That’s why God gave us Jesus, and why it takes the Holy Spirit working in our lives to create self-control.

Self-Control Comes by the Holy Spirit

Having been saved by grace through faith in Christ Jesus, who alone conquered sin and death; we have the Holy Spirit living in us to form us in the likeness of Christ. God doesn’t ask us to try to be like Jesus in our own power or striving, He gives us the Holy Spirit, the Helper.

. . .that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being. . . . (Ephesians 3:16)

The Holy Spirit is our power source. He alone equips us with what we need to exercise self-control. The benefits, or fruit, of Spirit-directed self-control are many. Let’s look at a few.

Self-Control Defends and Protects

Equipped by the Holy Spirit, self-control defends and protects us. Proverbs says a person without self-control is “. . .like a city broken into without walls” (Proverbs 25:28). Our lives can be wrecked by poor judgment and choices. Our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health are at risk of being compromised when we yield to our own desires instead of God’s. Self-control creates a fortress against the bombarding messages of self-gratification. Temperance in opinions, speech and habits keeps us from over-stepping boundaries meant to protect others and foster healthy relationships.

Self-Control Leads to Life

A life of self-control in accordance with the Holy Spirit yields life-giving freedom. Before our new lives in Christ, we were “slaves to sin” (Romans 6:20), but now under the Spirit’s direction we are free to experience life as God intends:

But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. (Romans 6:22, NIV)

Free from sin and death and free to experience all the riches of God’s grace and glory, this is real life:

Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory. (Colossians 3:1-4, NLT)

The world sees self-control as inhibiting freedom, but in Christ it leads to true freedom and abundant life. Known for their self-control, the apostle Paul encouraged the Thessalonian Christians:

One final word, friends. We ask you—urge is more like it—that you keep on doing what we told you to do to please God, not in a dogged religious plod, but in a living, spirited dance. You know the guidelines we laid out for you from the Master Jesus. God wants you to live a pure life. (1 Thessalonians 4:1-3, MSG)

As Christians, we need to embrace self-control with joy, because although difficult, it brings life. When people see the fruit of the Holy Spirit at work in us, when they see us living our “real lives” to the fullest, they will see Jesus.

Fruit for Thought

As you go through your day, ask God to increase your self-control. Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit, listening and watching for opportunities to yield to the Spirit’s will. Be willing to live under the Holy Spirit’s direction with joy, so that others will be see it and be drawn to Jesus.

Fruit of the Spirit: Gentleness

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In today’s post, we’re looking at this characteristic of the Spirit’s fruit: gentleness. Do you know what gentleness really is?

Gentleness – A Word Study

Recently, God has shown me bold strength in the quality of gentleness. At first glance, the two almost seem inconsistent, don’t they? 

Once upon a time, I thought that gentleness was simply defined as a soft touch or ation. God has shown me that spiritual gentleness isn’t this, but is something unique.

Looking back through my life, I’ve realized that I’ve had the pleasure of knowing several people that I’d classify as powerfully gentle. I’ve admired them greatly and the Lord has used them in my life to show me a better picture of what gentleness, as a fruit of the Spirit, truly is.

The Greek word for “gentleness” used in Galatians 5:23 is prautés (Srong’s #4240) which comes from praus, which means “mildness” and implies humility and meekness. Interestingly, the word emphasizes the divine origin of that meekness.

The definition uses the word meekness. Do you have a good understanding of meekness? I looked it up to make sure I did. Meekness isn’t a cowed, weak, passive, nor timid quality. Instead, Biblical meekness is a “gentle strength” or “power with reserve and gentleness.” 

“It begins with the Lord’s inspiration and finishes by His direction and empowerment. It’s a divinely-balanced virtue that can only operate through faith.”

(HELPS Word studies) 

Do you see how the the words “meekness” and “gentleness” are used in defining one another? Gentleness implies meekness and meekness is power with gentleness. The word “humility” is important in these definitions. They certainly all go together, don’t they? So, how can we get a good understanding of Biblical gentleness? Maybe a definition like this:

Gentleness: mildness with strength. A powerful humility that has a divine origin and can only operate through faith. It starts and finishes by God’s direction and empowerment.

The Spiritual Fruit of Gentleness. What it is, what it isn’t, and how to foster its growth. A word study and more. #FruitOfTheSpirit
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The Quality Demonstrated

With a better understanding of what Biblical gentleness is, I could see this quality demonstrated in godly friends whom the Lord put in my path. They have been meek and humble, yet rooted powerfully in truth, and willing to boldly share that truth with others in a loving (rather than proud or self-righteous) way. 

Their gentle, but powerful “touch” has been used to create beauty in my life and in a messy world.

What Gentleness Is Not

Spiritual gentleness isn’t timid, fearful, soft without strength, a tendency to “cave in,” nor an unwillingness to stand up for what’s right. It isn’t shying away from declaring or sharing truth. It’s also not selfish nor self-serving!

Where Does it Come From?

True to what’s denoted in its original meaning, spiritual gentleness is of divine origin. We can’t make it nor force it. The Holy Spirit (given to Believers at the time of salvation) grows it in Believers.

How Can I Foster its Growth?

Yes, God gives the fruit of the spirit, but we can agree with Him and work in partnership with Him. Fruit grows in soft soil and matures as we mature spiritually. When we stay close to God and obey Him, keeping the soil of our hearts fertile, fruit has an opportunity to grow.

Like Patti wrote in the introduction to this series:

 The remarkable blessing of belonging to [Jesus] is that the closer we stick to Him, the more deeply we abide in Him, the more He makes these things true of us.

Patti Brown

And as I wrote here about the fruit of love, 

As a Vine-abider (see John 15:1-17), I want to allow Him to work sanctification in me. I want to stay firmly attached to Him and bear fruit for His glory!

When we stay close to God and obey Him, keeping the soil of our hearts fertile, fruit has an opportunity to grow. #FruitOfTheSpirit
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How Can I Practice Gentleness?

Our relationship with God and time spent with Him in prayer and obedience equips us to practice gentleness. We practice this quality best in our relationships with others. 

Whether we’re guiding children into truth, standing up for our beliefs in a lost world, or catching ourselves before hurtful words fly out, we fare well when we season our words and actions with gentleness. Opportunities abound! We just need to pray for spiritual readiness and to be obedient to the Spirit’s direction and empowered by Him when situations for practice arise. 

When we miss an opportunity, we should repent and pray for softened hearts that will do better next time. 

 A good understanding of the meaning of the word really enlightened me! Does it differ with what you thought gentleness was? How?

Share your thoughts with us right here in the comments or in our Facebook community.

Blessings!

Ali

The Fruit of the Spirit: Faithfulness

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Faithfulness. So many examples of faithfulness come to mind: Lydia the piano teacher, Dan the choir director, Marty the Bible Quiz Team leader, Fran the 4-H leader, and Margaret the church librarian. I could fill pages with names of the faithful people in my life. Each one in his or her own way, encouraging my faithfulness.

Photo by Carolyn V on Unsplash

Definition

“Faithfulness” comes from the Greek word pistis, meaning “conviction of truth.” Webster’s 1828 Online Dictionary defines “faithfulness” as “truth; veracity; as the faithfulness of God.” A thoughtful definition from the writers at GotQuestions.org gives good insight into this Fruit of the Spirit:

Biblical faithfulness requires belief in what the Bible says about God—His existence, His works, and His character. Faithfulness is a fruit of the Spirit; it is the result of the Spirit working in us.
—“The Fruit of the Holy Spirit – What is faithfulness?” from GotQuestions.org

As I synthesize these definitions for myself, faithfulness, as a Fruit of the Spirit, is found in someone who steadfastly holds to the truth about God and acts on it, always pointing others to the same truth.

God is Faithful

Faithfulness is a core characteristic of God; His words are true, and He keeps His promises. He is completely trustworthy.

Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments. (Deuteronomy 7:9)

God’s faithfulness, His truthfulness and reliability, protect and defend His children.

He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart” (Psalm 91:4, NIV)

He continues to defend and protect, even though we fail.

. . .if we are faithless, he remains faithful— for he cannot deny himself. (2 Timothy 2:13)

Faithfulness Comes by the Holy Spirit

God’s level of faithfulness is out of reach for us, and there is no amount of striving by which we become more faithful. We do not come to saving faith in Christ on our own understanding. Romans 10:17 says, “. . .faith comes by hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” When we hear The Word, it is the Holy Spirit who enables our faith: “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth. . .” (John 16:13).

The Holy Spirit is God; He is always pointing us to truth: salvation, God’s Word, repentance, and right living (to name a few). The GotQuestions.org team says,

The only way we can have such faith is by the Holy Spirit’s influence. He testifies to the truth and impels us to seek God. The Spirit makes us faithful.
— “The Fruit of the Holy Spirit – What is faithfulness?” from GotQuestions.org

Any faithfulness seen in me, is by the work and power of the Holy Spirit, who graciously points me toward deeper truth and conviction.

Faithfulness Leaves a Legacy

The Holy Spirit uses faithful people to encourage and guide others in faith. Throughout God’s Word we see this. The list is long of people who established and grew legacies of faith to the benefit of future generations. Hebrews 11 is a whole chapter devoted to the legacy of faithful people. These Old Testament people believed God, and taking Him at His word they obeyed. Look at what un-named men and women of faith did:

Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, so that they might rise again to a better life. Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword. They went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, mistreated— of whom the world was not worthy—wandering about in deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. (Hebrews 11:35b-38)

Wow! Faithful men and women hold to the truth no matter the circumstances. I am glad the Bible shares these stories of faith, but I am also thankful for the faithful men and women, who are part of my faith story. Especially important are my parents, whose legacy of faith now continues in the lives of my children.

In writing on this topic, I can’t help but think of Steve Green’s song, Find Us Faithful. I have posted it below. Take a moment to listen, and ask the Holy Spirit to help you recall the “great cloud of witnesses” who have faithfully pointed you to God’s truth. (Hebrews 12:1)

Fruit for Thought

As you go through your day, ask God to increase your faithfulness. Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit, listening and watching for opportunities to trust God more, and give thanks for those who have taught and spurred you on in the faith.

The Fruit of the Spirit: Goodness

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Good. Goodness. These simple words are used frequently in the English language, many times overused. I admit that I wasn’t exactly excited about writing on goodness today. In the list of fruit of the Spirit, it’s not one given much consideration. So, I did some study, and I am excited to share my new understanding of this fruit of the Spirit.

Photo by Marco Secchi on Unsplash

Definition

In the article, “The Fruit of the Holy Spirit – What is goodness?” from GotQuestions.org, goodness is a quality of God “that relates directly to morality.” When people say, “God is good, all the time. All the time, God is good;” it is an affirmation of God’s character.

The Greek word for “goodness” is agathosune, meaning “uprightness of heart and life.” Goodness is a virtue, but the article points out, the merit of goodness is “the benefit of others, not goodness simply for the sake of being virtuous.” God wants His goodness to be born in us, so others might see and experience Him.

God is Good.

God is upright in all His ways. Along with the other fruit of the Spirit, it is the core of who He is.

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,
for his steadfast love endures forever! (Psalm 107:1)

In Psalm 34:8, we are challenged in our relationship to God to experience God’s goodness: “. . . taste and see that the Lord is good!” What’s more, Psalm 31:19 tells us that God’s goodness is vast and plentiful. There is an unending supply.

Here’s a song to encourage you in God’s goodness:

 

Goodness Comes by the Holy Spirit.

Scripture makes clear that humanity is not good apart from God.
as it is written:

“None is righteous, no, not one. . . (Romans 3:10)

The apostle Paul knew the struggle of the sinful nature, “For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out” (Romans 7:18).

BUT, the good news is that in Christ we are new creations, and by His Spirit working in us, the goodness of God is at work in our lives. Keeping “in step with the Spirit” allows God’s core values to be at work in us, transforming us into the image of His Son. A children’s storybook on the Fruit of the Spirit winsomely teaches that if you see me doing something good, by the power of the Holy Spirit, “that’s Jesus in me.”

Goodness is for Others

As the GotQuestions.org article shared, the goodness people see in me (the fruit of God’s work in me), is for the benefit of others.

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16)

Furthermore, when people see the Fruit of the Spirit in your life, they get to see and experience who God is. People can’t see or touch God, but they can have a tangible experience with Him as you bear His fruit in your life.

Fruit for Thought

As you go through your day, ask God to increase goodness in you. Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit, listening and watching for opportunities to do good, and give thanks for the goodness done to you.

The Power of Kindness

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There’s never a reason to be unkind.

Never a reason to forget we all are made

in the image of God alone.

These are lyrics from a song in a church play my six year old participated in recently. It’s a sweet story about a group of super heroes, the Agape League, each with the extraordinary ability to show God’s love through the power of the Spirit available to every believer.

This song about kindness has become a mantra in my house, reminding us how powerful kindness actually can be.

Kindness is the quality of being generous, considerate, thoughtful, caring, and friendly. It’s basically being nice. Actions become kindness when the intent of the heart is to love the person you are being nice to. God’s heart towards us is love and so his actions towards us are kind.

The LORD is righteous in all his ways
and kind in all his works. Psalm 145:17

But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil. Luke 6:35

The kindness developed through our time with the Spirit has the power to ease pain, heal wounds, bridge gaps, and restore relationships.

Kindness welcomes, builds, and heals

There are studies that show how plants thrive in nurturing environments, especially when they are spoken to kindly, but wither when they are ignored or yelled at. Kindness opens our hearts, so we are receptive to what is offered.

“Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.” – Colossians 3:12-13

“The native people showed us unusual kindness, for they kindled a fire and welcomed us all, because it had begun to rain and was cold.” Acts 28:2

Kindness takes the sting out of discipline and leads to repentance.

“Let a righteous man strike me—it is a kindness;
let him rebuke me—it is oil for my head;
let my head not refuse it.
Yet my prayer is continually against their evil deeds.” Psalm 141:5

There is nothing fun about being put in our place, even if, deep down, we understand that we deserve it. As a parent I know my children receive correction better when it given in kindness. It is not a weakness or a half-hearted attempt indulging bad behavior. A firm boundary, rooted in love, is a blessing and a protection.

“Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?” Romans 2:4

“For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,” – Titus 3:3-5

Kindness is powerful. Like the peel of the fruit it invites us to taste the goodness, experience the nutrition, and enjoy the benefits of relationship with God. Praise Him today for his loving kindness!

What’s the Point of Patience?

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Patience, as a virtue, is all but going extinct. It’s like a savings account. We all want to have one we just don’t want to take the time to build it. In the moment we’d rather have that $5 mocha.

After all, what is so good about waiting? Why wait if I can have it now? Isn’t the point of science and technology to make pain, discomfort, and inconvenience disappear? The English definition of patience is the capacity to accept trouble, delay, or suffering without getting angry or upset. It’s synonyms are endurance, perseverance, restraint, composure, long suffering. Who wants to suffer longer?

I am still so tempted every time I see an ad for a program that claims you can “drop ten pounds in two days”. I actively look for “fast, five minute dinners”. I will gladly pay a little extra so my package arrives sooner rather than later. I’m even tempted to click on the ads that promise I can write a book and get it published now! It’s so easy to justify these little services. Why wait if we don’t have to?

The ideas behind these quick conveniences of modern life are meant to free us up to spend more time on the things that matter. But really they rob us of opportunity to exercise and develop the characteristic of God that flavors the rest of our experience on this earth.

Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. Romans 5:3-5

A Worthy Pursuit

Patience as a virtue has merit. Athletes, musicians, artists all know that true excellence is achieved only when patience is exercised. Skills and knowledge are developed over time. Delaying gratification generally means you will have a greater payoff tomorrow. But that is not always true. The hard worker can faithfully put away money every day for years and then lose it all in an instant when the market crashes. The athlete can condition her body diligently to compete and never achieve the status she was looking for.

True patience – accepting trouble and suffering without getting angry or upset – is a gift (Read more about that here) It cannot be achieved outside the Holy Spirit working in our hearts to make us more like Jesus.

But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life. 1 Timothy 1:16

Patience is worthwhile because God is patient.

The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. 2 Peter 3:9

Love is patient (1 Corinthians 13:4). The Greek word Paul uses here (and in Galatians 5:22) is makrothymeo, literally “long temper”.

Waiting is hard. Waiting with a good attitude is even more difficult. But it is also the most tangible expression of trust. Exercising patience, accepting trouble without getting angry, can only be done when we let go of control.

Thinking about the work of the Spirit in our lives as fruit, patience is the seed. Pushed down deep in the dirt, trusting that in time, the plant will grow and flower and produce fruit that is nutritious and pleasing to the senses.

Lost Your Peace? 4 Ways to Find and Enjoy Peace Again

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Have you lost your peace?

While spiritual fruit won’t rot like physical fruit, we miss out on the deliciousness of the fruit of the Spirit if we don’t know how to pick it and eat it.

Here are 4 ways to find and enjoy the sweetness of peace.

We are looking this month at each individual piece of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).

Peace is here- fruit of the Spirit

The bananas were in a bag, sitting in a corner of the kitchen counter. The grapes were unwashed in the bottom bin of the refrigerator. The oranges were in their mesh bash in another bin, tucked away safe and sound.

I had picked them out. Paid for them. Brought them home.

But I wasn’t eating them.

And what happens to fruit when it sits out, uneaten for weeks? It rots. It’s no longer good to eat.

When We Can’t Find Our Peace

One reason we don’t graze on our fruit is because we get full on other things.

The same happens with our spiritual lives. If we start to feel anxious, we binge on distractions. We tune into Netflix. We chat up a friend. We busy ourselves with work.

Looking outside is easier then digging inside to uncover what God wants us to see.

So our peace goes unnoticed. Jesus isn’t consulted. And our anxiety, while it may hit pause for a minute, is still on.

Another reason we don’t find peace is we misunderstand it.

What is peace anyway? Is it the opposite of worry? Is it the absence of fighting? Is it total serenity with the world?

Peace for a Christian is a person. It’s Jesus. He is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). Jesus is peace personified.

Jesus told His disciples that His peace is different. It’s more than the calming of nerves; it’s a solid base that emotions can’t disrupt.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
John 14:27

Don’t Feel Peaceful?

But isn’t peace something we’re supposed to “feel”?

We do “feel” peace at times. (I thank God for those times.) But peace as fruit of the Spirit is deeper than feelings.

  • Peace is an unbreakable bond with God.
  • Peace is rest from earning.
  • Peace is our safe place for the soul, no matter what is stirring above ground.

We don’t have to be calm enough to receive peace. Or wise enough. Or courageous enough. We don’t have to earn peace by being good enough. We just have to trust that peace is there because Jesus said so.

Peace is a grace that redefines who we are. It lives in the centermost places, places where our fickle emotions can’t survive.

How to Find and Enjoy Peace

So how can we enjoy this peace on the inside when life is stressing us on the outside?

1. Let it ripen on its own.

You can’t create fruit. You can only prepare for its growth and then let it ripen.

Similarly, you can’t make yourself feel peace. But you can nurture your faith in Jesus so that peace can ripen in you.

Uncover peace in your soul by releasing outcomes you can’t control. The heavy burdens you carry aren’t yours to drag around. Take a break from single-handedly trying to fix the world’s problems.

Walk with Jesus. His path is a walk of peace. Jesus calls you to rest.

Start noticing peace when striving stops.

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:7

2. Put it in an obvious place.

When I keep my bananas in a dark corner, I forget about them. But when I put them in a bowl on the kitchen table, I see them and eat.

Put reminders around your house that you already have peace. Peace is your DNA; you are a child of Peace. It’s a gift inside you, right here, right now.

Here is a list of verses that Patti shared on peace. Print some. Memorize others. Let them prompt you to remember Jesus, your peace.

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”
Isaiah 26:3

3. Take it on a picnic.

The easiest way for me to eat fruit is to carry it around with me. To eat an orange, I peel it at home, put it in a baggie, and take it with me for a snack. When I get hungry, and there’s no other food around, I’ll eat the orange.

You can use your peace this way, too. When you’re facing a difficult situation, perhaps full of fear and angst, tap into the foundation of peace you carry around inside you.

Know that beneath your concerns and worries, Jesus has laid a safety net of peace for you. Look fear in the eye and say, “I can do this [scary thing] because no matter what, I have peace underneath it all.”

Let peace satisfy your hunger for security in the midst of unknowns.

You don’t have to believe what you feel. Trust what you know instead. Because Jesus, the overcomer, is in you, peace is in you, too. Don’t wait until your fears disappear before you embrace peace; lean on peace in the midst of worries. Peace is confidence.

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33

4. Cook it up and share it with others.

My mother-in-law does delicious things with fruit: strawberry pie, banana pudding, peach cobbler. Your fruit of peace is also meant to be shared. When your friends feel anxious, give them some peace.

Share your peace by reminding your friends of Jesus’s promises. Let them know that He will never forsake them. Remind them that God is for them. No one can snatch them out of His strong hand.

The truths that bring you peace are meant to be passed around.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”
Matthew 5:9

Peace Is Here

Whether or not you are feeling at peace today, thank God anyway that peace has been planted deep inside you. It’s here.

Outer winds may create ripples on the surface, but deep waters stay steady. You are safe. You are loved. You are His.

That’s peace.

Take a bite every day. Savor its sweetness.

Learn how to enjoy the fruit of peace. Take a bite of it. #FruitoftheSpirit

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What steals your peace? Do you have a favorite verse about peace? Please share in the comments.

For a musical taste of peace, enjoy “Peace Be Still” by Lauren Daigle.

Peace Be Still

Binge on Peace here:

 

Love: A Characteristic of the Spirit’s Fruit

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This month on DoNotDepart, we’re looking at the characteristics of the Fruit of the Spirit. Today’s post is about love.

What is Love?

We’ve written about love a lot here on DoNotDepart. Just type in “love” in the searchbar on our homepage and scroll through. 

I like this definition from Patti on love from this post: 

“…from a Christian worldview, love is not a feeling, it is a choice lived out in action.

In order to love in Jesus’ way, we have to understand His true definition of love. When we look at the truth given to us in Scripture, and modeled by Him in His earthly ministry, it is clear that love means serving.”

 

The Greek word used in the New Testament in agape. It has a different meaning than what our culture equates love with nowadays. Patti wrote about it right here.  I really recommend reading that post if you have time! If not, here’s the bones: 

“Agapé love is not based on merit or emotion. Agapé is a choice; a choice that God made when we least deserved it, and a choice that He asks you and I to make every day.” 

 

Do you see that word, choice? It really stands out to me! God commands me to show love, but I have to make the choice to obey. When I do, I enjoy the benefit of a better relationship with those I’m loving, and the Father I’m obeying.

God commands me to show love, but I have to make the choice to obey. Who should I love? Where do I get that love? And How can I love better? #FruitoftheSpirit

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Love: A Characteristic of the Spirit's Fruit. Read more about the Fruit of the Spirit at DoNotDepart.com

Who Should We Love

So, who should we love? Kelli answered this question while looking at 1 John 3:11-18 and 1 John 4:7-11. She tells us that there is no denying the fact that we are supposed to love our brothers.

And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also. (1 John 4:21)

 

And Jesus himself gave both this command and this answer to the lawyer who tested Him: 

A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. (John 13:35)

And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.”  (Luke 10:27) 

 

In that second verse, Jesus was quoting Levitical law. If you read Leviticus 19:18 you’ll see the original, and if you follow down to Leviticus 19:33-34, you’ll see this:

When a stranger sojourns with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong. You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God. (Leviticus 19:33-34)

 

In other words, the command to love others meant to love all others. This is also what Jesus taught in the Parable of the Good Samaritan when he was asked, “But who is my neighbor?” (Luke 10:29) The answer is:  Everyone.

Clarke’s Commentary says,

our Lord shows here, that the acts of kindness which a man is bound to perform to his neighbor when in distress, he should perform to any person, of whatever nation, religion, or kindred, whom he finds in necessity.

 

Where Do We Get Godly Love?

I think each one of us could say that we don’t always feel like loving others.

Sometimes I give love easily, but not always. Sometimes I put my wants or feelings first, or I feel too tired to do yet another thing for someone else. Or I feel grouchy and like the other person doesn’t even deserve my efforts. 

How wrong of me! If I follow only my feelings, those same feelings that lead me to loving well can lead me into not loving at all. Instead of following only feelings, I need to choose to follow God.

Despite unpredictable feelings, I can tell you this:  the Spirit gives us nudges to be loving. Yes, even when I don’t feel like loving, I know I should because of His reminders. I just have to listen and obey. Like Patti said, it’s a choice! 

Whether we don’t feel like giving love or we are loving someone difficult, we can pray and ask God to guide and empower us. He is faithful! I firmly believe He will answer that prayer and give us opportunities to love better and offer His wise counsel to help us.

How to Love Better

My grandson is an active toddler. He runs with excitement, but if he’s tired or distracted, he trips over his sweet, busy feet and falls.

Sometimes we fall or fail, too, but we must pick ourselves up and go again.

In the introduction to this series, Patti wrote:

 The remarkable blessing of belonging to [Jesus] is that the closer we stick to Him, the more deeply we abide in Him, the more He makes these things true of us.

 

As a Vine-abider (see John 15:1-17), I want to allow Him to work sanctification in me. I want to stay firmly attached to Him and bear fruit for His glory!

The characteristic of love is a fruit of the Spirit that I want to bear well. I desire to love others better, so here are some questions that I’m asking myself. I hope they help you, too.

  1. Am I being an example of God’s love to those around me? (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)
  2. Am I sharing Jesus with others? (Matthew 28:19)
  3. Am I counting others as more significant than myself? (Phil 2:3-7)
  4. Am I seeing others the way God does? (2 Corinthians 5:14-21)
  5. Am I “washing feet?” (John 13:1-17)
  6. Am I seeking opportunities to love actively? (Not just emotionally?) (Luke 11:28, Matthew 25:35-40)
  7. Am I apologizing sincerely when I mess up? (Matthew 5:23-24)

I’m praying that Jesus can say of both you and I that,

 …everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. (John 13:35)

 

Who can you love today? What makes loving others easy for you? What makes it hard? Pray for the help and guidance of the Holy Spirit. Make the choice today to obey His nudges.

Who should I love? Where do I get that love? And How can I love better? Read more at DoNotDepart.com #FruitoftheSpirit

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Read More:

We wrote an entire series about loving others. Check it out here!

Wondering what agape love really is? Find out here.

Want to teach your kids to love? Read how to Teach Kids to Be Missionally Minded.

Fruit of the Spirit

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Spring has sprung in my yard! The grass is green, the flowers are blooming, and the weeds are continuing their epic struggle to dominate the world. I spend every spare moment I can playing in the dirt.

 

I find gardening so rewarding! As I clip away dead branches and pull weeds, new life gets that extra surge and my yard grows even more beautiful.

My gardening life has not always been so lovely, though. I currently live in a house in a neighborhood. I have one little yard to tend, with landscaped beds and an in-ground sprinkler system.

But a year ago I was living on a farm, with 48 acres to worry about. The soil was less than optimal, and the sheer volume of insects was the stuff of nightmares. Not to mention scorching heat, drought, goats who break through fences and eat E-VE-RY-THING. Ugh!

I all but gave up on gardening. When you don’t see the fruit of your labor, you become disheartened. I had difficult conditions to work with, and my plants struggled.

You don’t get a good flower or veggie crop by painting flowers and vegetables on your plants! The only way to save the problem of lack of fruit is to improve the plant itself. The right amount of water and sun, good nutrients from the soil or supplements, wise pruning and regular cultivation of weeds… all of these are required to strengthen the integrity of the plant itself. Only then can it bear a healthy crop.

In the same way, the spiritual fruit you and I are able to bear is directly a result of Jesus’ work in us. When Jesus Christ lives in you, your transformation begins inside. Jesus is not in the business of whitewashing your outsides to look good! He changes you from the inside out. The fruit of the Spirit is the evidence of that work within.

Join us for a 9 part series on the fruit of the Spirit at DoNotDepart.com

This month we are going to take a slow and detailed look at these two “spiritual fruit” verses from Galatians 5:

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23

Sometimes in our hurry to be “good Christians” we focus on making fruit appear: “I am going to be more patient! I am determined to have more self-control!” If we could be more patient by sheer force of effort, we wouldn’t need Jesus, would we? The remarkable blessing of belonging to Him is that the closer we stick to Him, the more deeply we abide in Him, the more He makes these things true of us.

Join us for a 9 part series on the #FruitOfTheSpirit at DoNotDepart.com

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Beautiful, Bountiful Harvest – “Fruit of the Spirit” Lesson 5

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Fruit of the Spirit, Galatians 5This is the 5th – and last – lesson in a month-long series on “The Fruit of the Spirit.” You can also download today’s lesson as a PDF. You can access previous lessons here: First, Second, Third, and Fourth.

When we began this study, I mentioned my lemon tree. How it budded and bloomed. How the little lemons began to grow. Six weeks later the lemons aren’t ready to harvest. The fruit is still growing; the lemons still green. Fruit production takes time. But I will drink lemonade!

Like physical fruit needs time to grow, the fruit of the Spirit will not ripen in our lives overnight. We must work consistently to crucify the old nature. We must continually refuse to give in to our fleshly desires and yield our will to the Spirit’s. We can say “no” to our sinful nature, accept the “way out” God provides, and follow the Holy Spirit’s leading.

As we grow, the characteristics of Christ – fruit of the Spirit – will be manifested in our lives. As the Spirit transforms us more and more into the image of Christ, we will produce a beautiful, bountiful fruit harvest!

Plant: Knowing the Fruit

In Week Two, we discussed the meaning of “fruit.” The Greek word “karpos” refers to the natural product of the Holy Spirit, who lives inside every believer. The word is singular, signifying that “fruit” is a unified whole. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary suggests we think of the fruit as a “bunch of grapes instead of separate pieces of fruit.” As we grow in Christ-likeness we will produce all the characteristics of His nature.

Read Galatians 5:22-23. List the 9 characteristics of the Spirit’s fruit.

 

Let’s consider the meaning of each characteristic. Place the letter of a definition in the blank before the correct characteristic. (To double-check, the answer key is at the end of the lesson!)

___1. Love                       a. Enduring circumstances & other people, even when tried 

___2. Joy                    

                              b. Generosity springing from kindness; can include “sterner” good acts

___3. Peace                   c. Attitude expressing itself in loving ways & seeks others’ welfare

___4. Patience                  d. Trustworthiness; describes someone willing to die for Christ

___5. Kindness                  e. Strength to control sinful desires, to say “no” to the flesh    

___ 6. Goodness              

                               f.  “Happiness” that doesn’t depend on physical circumstances

___ 7. Faithfulness            g. Acting in a good and gentle way toward another

___8. Gentleness/Meekness 

                                           h. Tranquility; harmony with people & God; rest, contentment

___9. Self-Control            i. Linked to humility; not weakness; opposite of self-interest

Cultivate: Find out More

Let’s take a quick look at an example of each characteristic in action. Read the following Scripture passages. Make observations on the operation of these characteristics.

Galatians 5:13-14 (love):

John 16:22 (joy):

Romans 5:1 (peace):

2 Timothy 4:2 (patience):

Titus 3:4 (kindness):

Romans 15:14 (goodness):

2 Thessalonians 1:4 (faithfulness/faith):

2 Timothy 2:24-25 (gentleness/gentle):

2 Peter 1:5-6 (self-control):

Grow: Ready for a Harvest

We’ve talked facts and definitions. Now, let’s get personal. It’s time to do a fruit check. This is between each of us and God. Spend some quiet time with Him now and reflect on each characteristic of the fruit of the Spirit.

Ask God to show you the quality of the Spirit’s fruit in your life. Think about some recent circumstances. In the space below, jot down times you feel the Spirit’s character was manifested and times you allowed your natural, sinful character to take over.

 

Although we will battle our fleshly nature for the rest of our lives, we become more sensitive to the Spirit’s leading as we mature and learn to recognize His voice. As we end our study together, I pray God will encourage, strengthen, and grow you in the days ahead!

Let’s talk: What did you learn in this study that has encouraged or challenged you the most?

 

Fruit of the Spirit definition answer key. 1c, 2f, 3h, 4a, 5g, 6b, 7d, 8i, 9e

The Walking Dead – “Fruit of the Spirit” Lesson 4

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Fruit of the Spirit, Galatians 5This is the fourth lesson in a month-long series on “The Fruit of the Spirit. Download the PDF version of today’s lesson. See previous lessons: first, second, third.

I know what you’re thinking. Images of horror movies and the undead have probably crept into your mind. Just for fun, I Googled “The Walking Dead,” the title of today’s lesson. Did you know there’s a TV series with the same name? This drama on AMC tells the story of a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a zombie epidemic.

Thankfully, our fourth lesson in the “Fruit of the Spirit” has nothing to do with zombies. But we do need to talk about death – our own, in fact.

Here’s the truth of it: We cannot produce the fruit of the Spirit. We cannot – with any consistency – live a life characterized by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, or self-control.

Plant: We Can’t Do it!

You may be able to muster up a loving act now and again. I might work up enough will-power to control my fleshly desires in one instance today. But our lives will never abundantly exhibit the characteristics of Christ by our own strength and works. In today’s lesson we will explore how a life full of the Spirit’s fruit is possible.

Read Galatians 5:22-25. Are we told to produce the Fruit of the Spirit? (Circle one)  Yes   No

In lesson two, “What is Fruit?” we learned that “fruit” is the natural by-product of the Holy Spirit. Only the Spirit can produce these characteristics in our lives. As we allow Him to take control, His life will be manifested in ours.

Identify two things in the passage we should be doing.

 

Cultivate: Die to Self

Paul used the “active” voice in verse 24 when he wrote “have crucified the sinful nature.” This signifies an act that a believer has done and must continue to do to herself.

What do you think “crucifying our sinful nature” looks like in everyday life?

Remember, this is something we can do. We can choose to turn away from our sinful desires. Because of the presence of the Holy Spirit, we have the power to resist temptation and choose the way out God provides (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Before we take a closer look at the second thing we should be doing, read Romans 8:11-14. According to this passage, what “obligation” do we have as believers? Check all that apply.

___ To  follow our sinful nature and submit to its desires

___ To turn away from the deeds of our sinful nature

___ To submit to the leading of the Holy Spirit

 

According to Romans 8:11, why do we have this obligation?

 

Grow: Follow the Holy Spirit

Paul reinforces this reasoning in Galatians 5:25. Since the Holy Spirit has given new life to our sin-dead souls, we are obligated to follow His lead. This is the second thing we should be doing. Depending on your translation, you may read “keep in step with,” “follow the Spirit’s leading,” or “let us walk by.” Here’s how Strong’s Greek and Hebrew Dictionary defines the Greek word  stoicheo, that is translated in these various ways:

  1. To proceed in a row as the march of a soldier, go in order; metaph. to go on prosperously, to turn out well
  2. To walk; to direct one’s life, to live

Considering the definition of “walk,” what does it mean to “walk by” or “keep in step with” the Spirit?

 

Read Galatians 2:20 below from the New Living Translation:

My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

How does this verse help us understand what it means to “walk by the Spirit.”

 

On my own, I would produce nothing but sinful works. Even my “good fruit” would be rotten. My flesh is too weak and sinful and to produce the characteristics of Christ. Kathy must “die.” I have to get out of the way and let the Holy Spirit live Christ’s life through me. It’s the appropriate response to the One who saved my life. And my eternal hope.

Let’s talk: What is the hardest thing for you about following the Spirit? What helps you submit to His leadership?

 

Throw Out the Bad Fruit – Fruit of the Spirit, Lesson 3

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This is the 3rd lesson in a study on “The Fruit of the Spirit.” Access the first and second lessons. Download today’s lesson in a PDF.

If you’ve had any experience with a GPS or use a navigation system for driving directions then you are familiar with the following phrases:

  • Recalculating
  • Make a legal u-turn as soon as possible

My anxiety level rises dramatically when I hear that little computerized voice. In layman’s terms, “recalculating” means “You aren’t following my directions!” And the command to make a u-turn means, “You’re going the wrong way! Turn around immediately and go the other way!”

Plant: What does fleshly fruit look like?

Like these GPS warnings to drivers, certain things should raise a red flag in our faith if they are present in our lives. In Galatians, Paul refers to these signs as “acts of the sinful nature.” These attitudes and behaviors are contrary to the Spirit and what He wants to produce in our lives.

Read Galatians 5:19-21 from the New Living Translation below.

19 When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, 21 envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.  Galatians 5:19-21, NLT

Cultivate: Is our life growing any fruit of the flesh?

Circle any fruit of the sinful nature in the passage above that sometimes pop up in your life.

This list in Galatians is not exhaustive. Paul merely gave the believers in Galatia a sample of the fruit of the flesh. And everyone will struggle with different things. Let’s read two more passages from Paul’s letters to broaden our understanding of “the acts of the sinful nature.”

Read the following passages (maybe in more than one translation) and list any attitudes or behaviors that your sinful nature tends to produce.

Ephesians 4:22-32 and 5:1-7:

Colossians 3:5-10:

The presence of these attitudes and behaviors reveal that sometimes we allow our sinful nature to win a spiritual battle. If you’re like most Christians – including me – your life does produce some fleshly fruit from time to time. We still occasionally choose our own way over God’s and reject the “way out” He promises to provide when we’re tempted (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Grow: What can we do to get rid of the bad fruit?

Believer, whether our lives have produced a handful of fleshly fruit or an abundant crop, God’s desire for us is less “acts of the sinful nature” and more “fruit of the Spirit.” In the remainder of this lesson we are going to prepare our lives for the Spirit’s harvest by weeding out the bad fruit and tilling our heart for the Spirit’s work.

Read James 4:1-10.

Jesus’ brother James wrote to Christians caught in a cycle of sin. They had proudly rejected the leadership of the Spirit and chosen their own way. Distance from God, difficult relationships with God’s people, and a harvest of fleshly fruit were the result. But James commanded a remedy. I can hear him saying, “Make a legal u-turn as soon as possible!”

List phrases and words (vs 1-4) that describe their relationship with God and other believers.

 

Look back through verses 6-10 and list all the verbs you can spot that describe the actions a Christian should take when we’ve chosen our own way over God’s (I spotted 10).

 

These actions characterize true repentance. Sometimes Christians merely give lip service to repentance. But until we humble ourselves before God, grieve over our sin, and turn away from it we have not experienced real repentance. We must make a u-turn!

Read 1 John 1:9. How does God promise to respond to our repentance?

 

Today’s lesson has been very personal – and maybe even painful. We all have bad fruit in our lives. But, praise God, He does indeed allow u-turns! Take some time this week to sit quietly with God and work through getting rid of the fleshly fruit.

Let’s talk more about the process of repentance. Was there anything in James 4:6-10 about repentance that surprised you? Maybe an attitude God calls us to adopt or an action you previously have not considered part of repentance.

What is “Fruit?” – Fruit of the Spirit, Lesson 2

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This is the second lesson in our Summer Study, “The Fruit of the Spirit: Plant, Culivate, & Grow.” You can see the introductory/first lesson here.  You can also download today’s lesson as a PDF to print!
When my kids were little they loved watching Veggie Tales. Their favorite Veggie Tale characters were Bob and Larry – a tomato and cucumber, respectively. If you are also a Veggie Tales fan, you might want to sit down because I am about to shake things up. Larry and Bob aren’t vegetables! To be botanically correct, tomatoes and cucumbers are fruits!It doesn’t matter if we consider a tomato to be a fruit or a vegetable. But we do need a good understanding of the “fruit of the Spirit.” Over the next few weeks we will plant God’s truth about spiritual fruit in our hearts, cultivate our lives to receive it, and take action to help it grow! Today we’ll take a closer look at what the “fruit of the Spirit” is and consider our spiritual battle.

Read our focal passage, Galatians 5:16-26.

The word “fruit” used in Galatians 5:22 is the Greek word “karpos.” According to Mounces Complete Expository Dictionary, “karpos” refers to the natural product of something that is alive. Literally, it’s used of the product of trees, vines, and crops. But it’s also used metaphorically to refer to the natural product of a spiritual being. Paul uses it to contrast what our sinful natures naturally produce with what the Holy Spirit naturally produces.

Plant: Prerequisite to Growing Spiritual Fruit

The obvious prerequisite to producing the “fruit of the Spirit” is the presence of the Spirit. Let’s see what the Bible says about the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit and His work in us.

Read Ephesians 1:13-14. Check all the statements that apply.

___ We receive the Holy Spirit through faith in Christ.
___ The Holy Spirit “marks” us as belonging to God.
___ The Spirit is our “guarantee” that we will receive all God’s promises.

When we place our faith in Jesus as Savior and Lord, God guarantees our salvation by placing His Spirit within us. Every Christian is indwelled by the Holy Spirit (See Romans 8:9-11).

Cultivate: Two Key Facts about the Fruit of the Spirit

Let’s get a better understanding of the Fruit of the Spirit by exploring two key facts.

Fact #1: “Fruit” is the natural by-product of the Spirit in a Christian’s life.

Read 2 Cor 3:17-18. According to verse 18, what is the work of the Spirit in a believer’s life?

From the moment of salvation until the end of our lives on this earth, the Spirit of God works in believers to transform our nature and character into that of Christ’s. Therefore, the Holy Spirit is constantly working to rid our lives of the “acts of the sinful nature” (Gal 5:19) and conform us into the image of Christ. “Fruit of the Spirit” is evidence that our character is becoming like Christ’s.

Fact #2: “Fruit of the Spirit” is not the same as “spiritual gifts.”

Although the Spirit is the source of both His “gifts” and “fruit”, they are not the same. There are a multitude of various gifts but an individual only receives what the Holy Spirit determines to give (1 Cor 12:4-11). However the “fruit” of the Spirit should be common to all Christians. The word “karpos” is singular signifying that “fruit” is a unified whole. As we grow in Christ- likeness we will produce all the characteristics of His nature.

Grow: Prepare for Battle

If we want our lives to be filled with the fruit of the Spirit, we must realize there’s a spiritual battle going on inside every Christian. Our sinful human nature wants to satisfy our selfish desires. The indwelling Holy Spirit calls us to follow Him. Who will win?

Read Galatians 5:16-18. Describe this spiritual battle in your own words.

Read Eph 1:18-21. List words and phrases that describe the power of the Holy Spirit within you?

Read the following verses and record God’s promises to you.

       2 Peter 1:3-4 –

       1 Corinthians 10:13 –

We have a weapon of unlimited power on our side. Our fleshly nature does not have to win. Satan can appeal to our sinful desires, but his power over us is limited. We have a greater power at work in us. We have the power to resist our fleshly desires through the presence of the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Look back at Galatians 5:16-19. We have a choice to make. What is it?

We can choose to refuse our sinful nature. The powerful presence of the Holy Spirit supplies us with the power to be obedient to God. We can choose God’s “way out.”

Let’s talk: Think about the last time you faced a spiritual battle. What was it? Did you allow your flesh to win or did you walk in the power of the Holy Spirit? If you gave in to sin, can you identify the “way out” God offered?

 

“Fruit of the Spirit” Summer Study – You’re Invited!

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Last year, I planted two fruit trees – one lemon and one lime. I carefully placed them in large pots on the patio using the soil recommended by the nursery for citrus trees. Both received the same amount of sun and water. Both bloomed. Both had numerous visits from bees and butterflies.

The two trees have had the same care and nurturing, but the fruit production has been drastically different. The lemons seem to be growing overnight. The flexible young tree branches curve down under their weight. My husband and I anticipate large slices of the tangy fruit for our iced tea later in the summer.

In contrast, the limes look pitiful. When the blooms faded, tiny little fruit balls emerged, but only two or three have grown much. Many have turned brown and dropped off. God intended for both trees to grow fruit, but only one is fulfilling its purpose.

God also intends for us, His children, to bear fruit. According to Jesus, when we follow Him closely our lives will produce “much” fruit (John 15:5). Is your life producing an abundant harvest or are you in serious need of some spiritual fertilizer?

 

You Are invited!

This month here at Do Not Depart, we will be studying the fruit of the Spirit. You are invited to join us each Tuesday as we explore Galatians 5:16-26 and related passages. Whether we need some major pruning or just a little shaping up, all of us could benefit from studying and applying what God’s Word says about the fruit of the Spirit.

Here are a few things we’ll learn in Fruit of the Spirit: Plant, Cultivate, & Grow

  • What are the characteristics of a “fruitless” life?
  • What does it mean to “live by the Spirit?”
  • Just what is “fruit” anyway?
  • Am I “fruity?”
  • What should the fruit of the Spirit look like in my life?
  • How can I improve my harvest?

Each week as we study together we will Plant God’s truth in our hearts, Cultivate our own lives to receive that truth, and take action to help it Grow! The study will be in blog format and also available as a PDF download. Today, we combine the intro post and an optional study on the context of the book of Galatians.

Where do we begin? Context of Galatians

The way God chooses to apply the truths found in His Word can vary with the individual and their circumstance. However the meaning of a biblical passage never changes. It will always mean what God originally intended for it to mean. Before we can make application to our lives we must have a good grasp of the original meaning by considering the larger context. (For more information on biblical context read “Context is King.”)

Galatians is a letter written to a specific people at a specific point in history for a specific purpose. Therefore, we need to know who, when, and why to understand the meaning. (Download the PDF of today’s lesson on the context of Galatians.)

As you work through today’s lesson, you’ll discover that some of Paul’s original audience struggled with legalism and some were abusing their freedom in Christ by indulging sinful desires.

Let’s discuss this today. So far in your Christian life do you feel you have been influenced more by the “law,” your own nature, or by the Spirit? (We may not have the influence of the Mosaic Law, but the “do’s” and “don’ts” or religion are still prominent.)

 

Breaking the Negative Cycle

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Adding a new baby to your home should be a joyful time. However, it appears to have displaced all the members of our family. Positions have shifted. Roles have been adjusted. Resulting in unrest, impatience, and frustration.

In a desperate attempt to break the negative cycle, last week I sat down outside with my Bible while the boys ran wild (thanks Kat Lee for this idea).  New insight for our situation came from a familiar passage:

The fruit he mentions is not apples & oranges. But the kind of fruit our family is craving: “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Galatians 5:22). 

The Unfruitful Branch

He describes himself as the vine and us as the branches. In the past readings of this passage there appeared to be two branches:

  1. A branch connected to the vine producing fruit.
  2. A branch disconnected from the vine with no fruit.

However, this time around I noted a third option: a branch physically connected to the vine but producing no fruit.

 ”Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away” (John 15:2).

This is where I see myself lately. Externally I’m doing all the “right” activities: reading the Bible in the morning, attending church, and praying. I’m going through the motions.  But I am producing no fruit: impatience instead of patience, harshness instead of kindness.

The root of the problem is not my spiritual activities.  My “branch” is connected to the vine. But the position of my heart is misplaced.

True Abiding

Christ does not say “check in with me occasionally” or “talk to me only when you need something” and you will produce fruit. He instructs us: “abide in me.” (John 15:4)

In fact, the word “abide” (“meno” in Greek) is used eight times in these eleven verses…so He must really mean it. To “abide in Him” goes deeper than performing spiritual tasks. To “abide” means: “to continue to be present; not to depart; to remain close-beside; to persevere.”

  • Abiding means focusing my thoughts on Him throughout the day. Not just first thing in the morning, when I  spend more time tweeting than dwelling.
  • Abiding means meditating on His Word by memorizing Scripture. Not just finding one verse to share on social media.
  • Abiding means worshipping Him through music or enjoying His creation during a walk outside. Not absent-mindedly listening to the local Christian radio station.
  • Abiding means seeking Him first in prayer. Not texting a friend to complain about my problems.

 Remain in His Sacrificial Love

The first step in producing fruit is abiding. The next step is remaining in His love (John 15:9). HIS love.

Not just anyone’s love. The unconditional love of a Savior. The sacrificial kind of love. “By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers” (1 John 3:16).

How do I “remain in His love”? Christ gives us the answer:

“If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love” (John 15:10).

Abiding in His love comes from obeying His commands. What is the next command Christ gives?:

“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:12).

Positive, Fruit-producing Cycle:

There is my answer. To break out of my negative cycle I have to enter into Christ’s positive, fruit-producing cycle. To have love, joy, peace…I need to love others (including my family) sacrificially.

Abide in Him & His Word–>Remain in His love–>Obey His commands–> Love one another–>Fruit of Spirit

When I chose to be mechanically attached to the vine but produce no fruit (“a clanging cymbal” serving without love), I will be cut off from the vine to wither. The only good use for such a branch is to be burned (John 15:6). Firewood.

However, my decision to abide in Him throughout my day not only affects my day, but my tomorrow and my children’s tomorrows. Such a decision produces “lasting fruit” (John 15:16) of love, joy & peace for future generations to savor.

Do you struggle with abiding? Do you feel like the 3rd option, the branch connected but fruitless? What helps you remain in His love and love others well?

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