The Fruit of the Spirit

 The fruit of the Spirit is the result of the Holy Spirit’s presence and power in the life of the follower of Jesus Christ and an expression of our devotion to God and one another. These contrast with the acts and fruit of man’s broken and sinful nature listed in Galatians 5:19-21. We will never be perfect, but as we commit ourselves to follow and obey Christ, what is this holy fruit that the Spirit provides as we become new creations of God, re-made in His image, releasing our wills and desires for His?

April

       12   Love                                                                                 Doug

There are different words translated “love” from the Greek, including Eros, Philia, Storge, and Agape. The love of God is that of Agape. Kind. Generous. Not self-seeking. Fully sacrificial. A love of mercy and grace. How do we live out that kind of love? How do we keep that kind of love at the center of our heart and mind as we go through our days?

                  John 15:9-13; 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a; John 3:16

      19   Joy                                                      Wes/Anne C./Lorae S.

Joy and happiness are similar, but not the same. We are encouraged to have joy and rejoice in all circumstances, whether good or bad. Nehemiah told the Israelites that “the joy of the Lord is my strength” in the midst of a troubled time. What brings you joy? Where does joy come from when times are tough? What can tend to steal your joy? How can we be joyful in all things? Psalm 16:5-11; Habakkuk 3:17-18; Nehemiah 8:9-10

      26    Peace                                                                                  Wes

Peace can have different facets and nuances. Peace is more than tranquility and quiet. Peace is more than lack of war. Peace is active. Peace is personal. We are told that peace from God goes beyond our understanding. Is it possible for peace to be present as we disagree with someone? Can we live without anxiety and worry within our own soul? What does peace from the Spirit look – and feel – like?

May

       3      Forbearance/Longsuffering                                            Wes

The KJV uses the word “longsuffering”. A process of enduring pain, annoyance, or persecution in a calm, wise, and insightful manner. How has God been patient with His people in the past? How is God patient with us today? Are we patient with one another and those around us? How are we called to be mutually accountable to one another within the Body of Christ, and called to be patient? Are those calls compatible? Do they complement one another? What does the Spiritual fruit of patience look like?

              Romans 2:1-4; James 5:7-11; James 1:2-4

     10   Kindness                                                                             Doug

            Mother’s Day

Kindness from God is a caring, tender concern for others and their welfare. Kindness is within our hearts. Kindness is within our actions. Kindness is within our words. We nestle and seek comfort within a mother’s nurturing tenderness and compassion that mirrors God’s kindness. How and where do we offer that same kindness to one another?

                  Colossians 3:12-14; Psalm 23:2-3; Luke 15:3-7

     17     Goodness                                                                           Wes

Goodness can be defined as an “uprightness of heart and life”. We are encouraged to live a good life–to do good deeds–to make a difference in this world. Yet Jesus said that “no one is good – except God alone” (Luke 18:19). What then, is the goodness that the Spirit gives? Can we truly be good? What does it mean to be good? How do we experience the goodness of God?

                  James 1:16-18; Matthew 5:13-16; Ephesians 2:8-10

     24     Faithfulness                                                                      Doug

Hebrews 11 provides a long list of men and women who were faithful followers of God. What does it require to place our faith and trust in God? How can we grow into a steadfast and vibrant faith? Is faith growth something that can be done alone or do we need the Holy Spirit and fellow believers to grow in faith?

     31     Gentleness                                                                         Wes

Within the Beatitudes, we read the statement: “Blessed are the meek.” What does it mean to be meek and gentle? Does God want door mats? Does God want fighters? Is there strength in being meek and gentle? How does God use our meekness and gentleness to grow His Kingdom?

                  Galatians 6:1-6; 2 Timothy 2:22-25

                  Romans 12:3-8; Psalm 37:7-11

June

       7     Self-control                                                                      Wes

              Graduation Recognition

We have a sinful human nature. Given free rein, we can do things that elevate self and satisfy selfish ambitions and desires. Are we able to avoid doing those things upon our own strength? Are we able to do generous and loving and godly things upon our own strength? Where does the power to control “self” come from? What does “living free” mean for those who follow Christ? Romans 6:6-7; Galatians 5:1; Romans 7:14-25