This title is borrowed from my brilliant husband who wrote a blog last week. He is, of course, speaking of spiritual fruit - that which is made possible by the Holy Spirit that dwells within every single born-again believer in Jesus Christ. The 9 items listed on the towel and in Galatians 5:22-23 (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control) are the natural product of that Spirit that lives within us. The gift of the fruit - single entity - is then developed as we grow in our faith. This is what Don said:
"I must never forget. Fruit is God's goal. His grace doesn't change this expectation or make it unnecessary. Just makes it possible."
So, what do people see in me? What do they see in you? Our women's Bible study is finishing a study by Jenn Wilkin on the first 18 chapters of Exodus and, oh my goodness, those Israelites really knew how to grumble! The Lord God freed them from hundreds of years of oppressive slavery, and they're still grumbling! The Lord told them over and over again, listen to me and all your needs will be met and I will be with you.
You know what, the Lord tells us the same thing today in His word. Joy is available even in heartbreaks. Peace is available even in the midst of strife. Kindness is available even when we are mistreated. I do not want to live like the Israelites always complaining about what they didn't get. About what isn't the same as it used to be. I want to "focus on the fruit" and be grateful for the privilege to serve a God who loves me so much He gave His only son that I might have an abundant life.
For further study: Psalm 52:8-9, Matt. 7:16, Luke 8:15, John 15:16, 2 Cor. 5:10, Galatians 5:22-23, Phil. 2:1-2, Philemon 1:4-6, James 2:14, 1 Peter 2:12.
Be blessed in your understanding of God's word.
Love,
Holly
