Fruit of the Spirit: Self-Control

This is the last characteristic for a reason! Having self-control is way easier when the other eight traits are present! Self-control can simply be seen as walking in step with the Spirit. Beth Moore states, ‘Self-control is the decision to remain within the boundaries of victory.’ Or as Proverbs states, a man without self-control is like aContinue reading “Fruit of the Spirit: Self-Control”

Fruit of the Spirit: Gentleness

Let’s begin our discussion with the best example of pure gentleness – Jesus! Gentleness, as portrayed by Christ, is not weakness but actually controlled strength. His life and ministry exemplified spiritual gentleness – not getting easily frazzled or offended. It’s taking a deep breath, focusing on the truth and interacting with others and the SpiritContinue reading “Fruit of the Spirit: Gentleness”

Fruit of the Spirit: Faithfulness

Our faithfulness is founded upon God’s faithfulness. As with all fruit of the Spirit, our being faithful is our response to His continually being faithful to us! But while ‘faith’ is a common word in our language, the idea of ‘faith’ is honestly a mystery. We’re all too familiar with the term ‘unfaithful’ and quicklyContinue reading “Fruit of the Spirit: Faithfulness”

Fruit of the Spirit: Kindness & Goodness

Beth Moore in Living Beyond Yourself introduced kindness and goodness together, as two characteristics that go hand in hand when it comes to being connected to the Vine. And ever since going through her study years ago, I have seen this truth played out again and again! I realize this verse below seems a bitContinue reading “Fruit of the Spirit: Kindness & Goodness”

Fruit of the Spirit: Patience

Ah, patience. Patience is definitely a virtue and a characteristic of God. Whether it’s in scripture or our surroundings, we see the role of patience at work. Let’s begin by continuing the Vine and fruit analogy. We can all agree that gardening is not a rushed or speedy process. Even something as simple as pullingContinue reading “Fruit of the Spirit: Patience”