Galatians 5:22-23 – Verse of the Day 7/28/14

Have you ever seen oranges growing on an apple tree? What about watermelons? Although modern science has done amazing things, usually fruit trees only grow fruit that matches the nature of the tree. Here’s a slightly trickier question: is an apple tree that doesn’t grow apples really an apple tree? Maybe so, but it certainly isn’t a healthy one.  

In the same way, the Bible tells us that faith produces fruit according to its nature, and that a healthy Christian will naturally produce good fruit. The Bible is clear that our own good works cannot do anything to save us from sin, but nonetheless Christian faith should produce good works. Similarly, this famous verse about the fruits of the spirit lies in the midst of a long description of the power of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Christian.

Spend some time praying through each of the characteristics listed in this verse, especially patience. As you pray, allow each word to make you aware of your sin and how you fall short in this area. As you do so, remember that Jesus’ life and death on the cross have set us free from our sins. As you rejoice in that reality, pray that God would help you to grow in each of these areas by the power of His Holy Spirit.