Looking for Fruit

Looking for Fruit
Galatians 5:16-26

As believers, we all want the fruit of the Spirit, but how can we know if we
truly have it? Even unbelievers can display these qualities when conditions
are positive. This nine-fold fruit of the Spirit is not what we do, but who
we are, and it is primarily on display in Christians when circumstances are
unfavorable. Two characteristics help us recognize these traits in our
lives.

Fruitful believers are not controlled by their environment. Everyone
experiences trials and pain, but those who are filled with the Spirit do not
lose His
fruit because of their situations. They keep their joy even when
difficulties overwhelm. If someone speaks harshly, they respond with
kindness. Because
the Holy Spirit is in control, He is free to produce His fruit no matter
what the circumstances are. Even though such believers may feel pain, anger,
or
a desire for revenge, they choose to trust the Lord to protect them and
direct the outcome.

Fruitful Christians recover quickly after a fall. These believers are not
perfect, but they are sensitive to the Spirit's conviction and are quick to
return
to the Lord in repentance. In fact, they are actually grateful for the
correction and praise God, not only for revealing their weakness but also
for drawing
them back to obedience.

No one produces these amazing qualities in himself. Trying harder to be
godly will never work. Character transformation occurs when we submit to
God, giving
Him complete control of our lives. Only then will the Spirit be free to
produce fruit that remains even in the deepest, darkest storms.

For more biblical teaching and resources from Dr. Charles Stanley, please
visit
www.intouch.org.

Used with permission from In Touch Ministries, Inc. © 2009 All Rights
Reserved.