What does the word 'fruit' mean in this reading? It describes the kind of life which the Holy Spirit will produce where He is allowed to do so. One version reads, 'The Spirit Himself brings a harvest of the fruit of the Spirit.' The nine characteristics really describe a Christ-like life. They are not naturally produced by us. They are entirely the result of the Holy Spirit's work of reproducing the character of Christ in our lives. The first three belong to the inner life - love, joy and peace. Love (as used in the Bible) is an undefeatable goodwill, even for those who may not love us. It is the kind of affection God has for all the world. Joy is happiness which is based on our security and position in Christ. Many think they have 'joy' but it is not the TRUE joy Christ can give. Peace comes not from the absence of trouble but from the presence of God. The next three describe our attitudes toward others - patience (with people), kindness and goodness. All speak of our willingness to give ourselves to others. The final three - faithfulness, gentleness and self-control, describe our continuing attitudes as Christians. This is the work of the Holy Spirit. The New English Bible translates v. 25 in this way: 'Since (or if) the Spirit is the source of our life, then let the Spirit direct our course.' The road to blessing and to victory in our conflict with the old nature is to daily allow the Spirit of God to have His own way in our lives. Are we doing it? A MORNING PRAYER: 'Lord, I give myself to you for this day, so that your Holy Spirit may have His way in me today.' |
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