Is my life characterized by the fruit of the Spirit? - Part 2

But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Those who belong to Christ have nailed their natural evil desires to his cross and crucified them there. If we are living now by the Holy Spirit's power, let us follow the Holy Spirit's leading in every part of our lives. - Galatians 5:22-25

The fruit of the Spirit is manifested in a person that the Holy Spirit truly indwells. As we yield control of our lives to Jesus Christ through unconditional obedience, the Holy Spirit supernaturally works within us to produce the fruit of the Spirit. The fruit is not produced by our trying to live the Christian life. Instead, the fruit of the Spirit is produced when we allow Jesus Christ to live His life through us as we remain unconditionally obedient to His will.


Kindness - a tender concern for others, reflected in a desire to treat others gently, just as the Lord treats all believers.


Do my actions/words convey respect and concern for others?


Goodness - moral and spiritual excellence manifested in active kindness.


Am I characterized by kindness?


Faithfulness - loyalty and trustworthiness


Am I trustworthy?


Gentleness - a humble and gentle attitude that is patiently submissive in every offense while having no desire for revenge or retribution.


Am I patient with others and forgo any desire to retaliate?


Self-control - the ability to regulate one's emotions, thoughts, and behavior in the face of temptations and impulses.


Am I executing life with Christ-honoring self-control?


Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. - James 1:19-22 (ESV)


Be Encouraged to allow Christ to live His life through you with unconditional obedience.


-Jeffrey Thornton 








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