Fruit is the direct result of whatever controls our hearts. The fruit of the Holy Spirit is in direct contrast with the acts of the sinful nature. Whether it is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, or self-control, the fruit of the Spirit is the change in our character that comes about because of the Holy Spirit’s work in us. We do not become a Christian on our own, and we cannot grow on our own. Philippians 2:13 says that “it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.” Every good thing we do is the fruit of the Spirit’s work in our lives. Other scriptures referenced include Galatians 5:22-23; Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Ephesians 1:13-14; Galatians 2:20; Philippians 2:3; John 15:13; 1 John 3:11; Luke 6:35; 1 John 5:3; John 3:16; Mark 12:30-31; Philippians 2:13; Matthew 15:19; Romans 6:6; Galatians 5:1; Galatians 5:19-21; Galatians 6:8; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Romans 7:14-25; 2 Corinthians 5:17; and Philippians 4:13.
Mary and Joseph reflect on their journey following the birth of Jesus, starting from the visit of the Magi to their flight to Egypt...
Joshua remained faithful to God while almost all those around him faltered. On the borders of the Promised Land, Moses was concerned that the...
Mary reflects on the transformation of the stable, once a place of cold fear, now filled with the warmth and sounds of her baby,...