Galatians 5:22a – But the fruit of the Spirit is love, …

It is significant that the apostle Paul distinguishes between the works of the flesh, and the fruit of the Spirit. Works are produced by human energy. Fruit is grown as a branch abides in the vine (John 15:5). They differ as a factory and a garden differ. Note that fruit is singular, not plural. The Holy Spirit produces one kind of fruit, that is, Christlikeness. All the virtues now listed describe the life of the child of God. The fruit (not fruits) of the Spirit is love—as defined by joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and self-control. Love is what God is, and what you ought to be.

Challenge:

Would you say that you are known for your love of God and your love for others? Has the Lord impacted your heart in such a deep way that His love radiates from within you? (1 John 4:7) Your challenge this week is to allow the love of Jesus Christ to flow freely from your heart and touch the lives of others. Go for a walk with your spouse or a friend and leave your cell phone at home so you will not be distracted and be present. Time is one of the rarest commodities these days so go for a long car ride with someone and have no particular destination in mind. Tell someone why they are important to you and why you are thankful for them in your life. These are just some ways to show others love that I’d produced by the Spirit. May God bless you.