But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. — Galatians 5:22-23
Suppose I’m not loving. Suppose I’m not joyful. Suppose I’m not patient. And so on. What should I do?
Should I straighten up? Should I act more loving, more joyful, more patient?
Sometimes we confuse description with prescription. These qualities describe the result of God’s work in our life; they are not a to-do list for us. This fruit validates the Spirit’s work in our lives. This list helps us test the spirits.
If we find that we are not loving, then we invite the Holy Spirit into that part of our life that does not love. If we lack joy, then we invite the Spirit into that lack. If we are troubled, then this is where we need God.
Fruit is not produced mechanically, by design and execution. Fruit is produced organically, by connection with the vine.
And thank God for that, because my imitations wouldn’t taste very good.
Be encouraged!
Dwight
Dwight Clough is the author of four Christian books and is an active member of Lake City Church in Madison. This devotional is also available via email and you may review the archives back to 2002. To contact Dwight or Kim, use their contact form. You may also support their ministry.