We previously learned about the fruit of the Spirit in our study of Galatians. As we continually strive to be more like Christ, these characteristics should become evident in every aspect of our lives. On Sunday, we took a deeper look at how the nine characteristics we bear when the Holy Spirit lives within us fit beautifully into three outwardly observable categories.
In our relationship with God (upward): love, joy, and peace.
We see agape love most clearly in Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross—a love so great that He was willing to suffer so we could be restored to God. Throughout the Old Testament, we see that the forgiveness of sin requires the shedding of blood. How incredible that God chose to become that sacrifice for us. Because of this, we can fully experience the love of our perfect Heavenly Father, who chooses us again and again.
From that love flows joy, a deep and steady satisfaction in who God is. And when we trust Him fully, we receive peace that surpasses understanding, even in life’s storms. Be mindful to keep your focus on Him, because distractions are often used by the enemy to steal that peace and joy, whether it’s frustrating paperwork, difficult diagnoses, or conflict in relationships. Resist the urge to take control and instead lean into the Holy Spirit within you. What may feel heavy now is not the end, joy truly comes in the morning.
In our interactions with others (outward): patience, kindness, and goodness.
Patience can be especially challenging. To endure hardship and remain slow to anger goes against our natural instincts, it requires the work of the Holy Spirit in us. From patience flows kindness, a visible compassion in how we treat those around us. This extends into goodness, where our character and actions reflect integrity. Are your interactions marked by genuine care? Do people walk away feeling seen, valued, and encouraged? That kind of impact can only come from a life rooted in God.
In our relationship with ourselves (inward): faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Faithfulness is seen in our commitment to God and our consistency in living out what He has called us to do. It also shows in how dependable we are in our daily lives. Gentleness is an area many of us desire to grow in, having strength that is steady and controlled, not reactive. It’s choosing grace in both our outward responses and our inner dialogue. And finally, self-control is like a muscle that must be exercised, it allows us to manage our emotions and responses in a way that reflects Christ, even in difficult moments.