You know how a certain passage of Scripture can grip you for a while? I’ve been consumed by Galatians 5:16-24 lately. The famous Fruit of the Spirit are there, which I memorized as a child through a song (keep singing, childrens’ ministries!).
I’ve been camping out in this passage lately, though, because I’ve seen too much of what happens when the Fruit of the Spirit are not evident:
“But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another.” (Galatians 5:15, ESV)
As Christians, we are to exhibit the Fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control), which is evidence of someone walking by the Spirit (Gal. 5:16). These qualities should be evident in our interactions with one another, and people should see this fruit if they observe our interaction and fellowship.
If there’s a gathering of Christians, the fruit of the Spirit should be evident. If there’s an online discussion among Christians, it should even be there too.
Galatians 5:16 also warns, though, that we can easily fall into the desires of the flesh. This can lead to conflicts, arguments, and division among us.
Which is more obvious in your life: Spirit or flesh?
Or let me cut to the quick: If someone scrolled your social media, would they think you walk by the Spirit or by your flesh?
When we exhibit the Fruit of the Spirit, we exhibit godly characteristics and create an environment of unity. We encourage one another, build each other up, and share in the joys and struggles of life. Not the opposite.
I’m looking forward to continuing to study this passage. Strive with me to walk by the Spirit and bear the Fruit of the Spirit in all that we do.