Galatians 5:22-23

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness. Faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

When we are newly transformed, we produce something special in our lives. Paul refers to these new works, fruit of the Spirit. When we accept the Holy Spirit into our lives He works spontaneously and creatively producing all kinds of fruit in our lives. This happens because we are becoming more like Christ. When Christ is in control of our lives the Spirit the fruits grow and flow from us freely. We cannot get them without his help. I have found myself on more than one occasion trying to take care of things my own way. It doesn’t turn out as well as when I rely on the Spirit and trust in Him to grow and flow the fruit of Spirit from me. Are you waiting on the Spirit or are you under your own control?

Dear Lord, help me to remember that you are the only one who can grow my spiritual gifts. I need to choose to operate in them but ultimately, I cannot do it without you. Help me to help others to realize this message and to help them grow in you. Give me your wisdom and courage to do as you call me to do. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.