Be a #FruitInspector

In the book of Galatians, the apostle Paul masterfully articulates the profound significance of the fruit of the Spirit. With eloquence and wisdom, he imparts to us the understanding that as followers of Christ, we are not merely called to live mundane lives, but rather to showcase extraordinary qualities that stem from the divine presence of the Holy Spirit dwelling within us. Love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control - these virtues, like a radiant bouquet of fragrant flowers, encompass the very essence of the fruit of the Spirit.
When we intentionally exhibit these remarkable attributes, we not only align ourselves with the character of God, but we also become living conduits through which His boundless love and grace can touch and transform the world around us. It is as if we become vessels of blessings, pouring out compassion, understanding, and forgiveness onto a thirsty and broken world. The fruit of the Spirit is not simply a checklist or a set of rules to follow, but rather a pathway to experience the abundant life Jesus promised. It is a lifelong journey of cultivating these virtues, fueled by the deep connection we have with the Holy Spirit.
Moreover, Paul reassures us that these fruits of the Spirit are divine gifts that surpass the limitations of human regulations. No law can ever condemn or prohibit the cultivation of such virtuous qualities. They transcend societal expectations and cultural norms, serving as a living testament to the incomparable power and life-altering transformation that the Spirit brings into our lives. These virtues are the epitome of grace in action, for they effortlessly demonstrate the beauty and character of God to a world in desperate need of hope and healing.
Therefore, it is incumbent upon us, as faithful believers, to diligently strive to cultivate and nurture these fruits within us. It requires intentional effort and surrendering our will to the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to work profoundly within us and radiate through our actions. It is not always easy, but the rewards are immeasurable. As we grow in love, joy, peace, and all the other fruits, we find ourselves becoming more like Jesus, leaving an indelible impact on all those fortunate enough to cross our paths.
As ambassadors of Christ, we have the privilege and responsibility to bring His kingdom values into every sphere of our lives. May we humbly walk in the footsteps of the apostle Paul, who so eloquently reminded us of the transformative power of the fruit of the Spirit. Let us live as fearless witnesses of God's love, allowing the Holy Spirit to work through us, and leaving a lasting legacy of hope, grace, and redemption for generations to come.

Look for evidence of these fruits/qualities in professed Christians. There are many people who think they are saved, yet unfortunately, there is hardly any tangible evidence of these transformative qualities in their day-to-day life. Despite claiming faith and salvation, their actions often fail to reflect the love, grace, and compassion that should accompany such a profound belief. This discrepancy between professed belief and visible fruit can be puzzling and even discouraging for those seeking genuine examples of living out one's faith. It serves as a reminder that true salvation reaches far beyond superficial acknowledgment and requires a deep personal commitment to embodying the teachings and values of one's chosen faith.

God's love is a boundless and encompassing force that knows no limits. It is a source of comfort and strength, guiding us through the most challenging times with unwavering grace. This divine love shines brightly, illuminating the darkness that may envelope us, reminding us that we are never alone. It is a love that extends beyond comprehension, embracing every aspect of our being, reminding us of our worth and purpose. God's love is a refuge, a shelter in the storm, offering solace to wounded hearts and providing a sense of belonging that surpasses any earthly connection. It is a love so profound that it can heal the deepest wounds and bring restoration to even the most shattered souls. In God's love, we find hope, redemption, and endless possibilities for growth and transformation. As we open ourselves to receive this love, we are filled with a peace that surpasses all understanding, knowing that we are cherished and held in the arms of a love that will never let us go.

The Joy of the Lord is a truly remarkable and indescribable feeling that transcends all circumstances and is not limited by the challenges we may face. It is a deep sense of contentment, satisfaction, and delight that comes from knowing and experiencing the love and presence of God in our lives. This joy is not dependent on earthly possessions, worldly success, or external factors, but rather it is rooted in our relationship with God and the assurance of His faithfulness. The Joy of the Lord is like a refreshing spring that flows from within, bringing peace, strength, and a renewed perspective even in the midst of trials. It is a powerful source of strength that enables us to endure hardships, overcome obstacles, and find hope in the face of adversity. Truly, the Joy of the Lord is a precious gift that fills our hearts with gladness and enables us to live a life of purpose, gratitude, and love. It is a divine treasure that transforms our outlook and guides our steps as we navigate the journey of life, reminding us that we are never alone and that there is always a reason to rejoice.

Peace beyond understanding is a remarkable state of tranquility that surpasses comprehension. It is an unwavering calmness that cannot be disturbed by the chaos and turmoil of the world. This profound peace emanates from within, enveloping the mind, body, and soul with serenity and harmony. Its beauty lies in its ability to transcend the limitations of human logic, defying explanation and analysis. It is a gentle whisper in the heart that resonates with profound truth, reminding us that even in the midst of uncertainty and adversity, there is an unwavering stillness that can be found. This peace goes beyond mere absence of conflict; it is an anchor amidst the storms, a sanctuary of solace in the midst of chaos. It is a gift to be cherished, a precious jewel to be shared with the world around us.

Long suffering is a virtue that encompasses patience, understanding, and endurance in the face of adversity. It is an admirable quality to possess, enabling individuals to weather the storms of life with grace and resilience. In times of hardship, long suffering allows one to maintain a calm and composed demeanor, offering solace and support to others. Despite the challenges that may arise, those who embody this trait consistently demonstrate an unwavering strength of character and an unwavering spirit. In a world often marked by impatience and quick fixes, practicing long suffering serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and the transformative power of patience.

Kindness is a virtue that has the power to transform not only the lives of individuals, but also the fabric of our society. It is a gentle force that reaches deep within us, touching the hearts of those around us and inspiring acts of compassion, empathy, and understanding. In a world that often feels increasingly disconnected and fast-paced, practicing kindness creates a sense of unity and belonging. It is a simple gesture, like a smile or lending a helping hand, that can brighten someone's day and remind them that they are not alone. Kindness is contagious, spreading from one person to another like a ripple effect, creating a chain of positivity. It transcends differences and brings people together, fostering harmony and creating a more compassionate world.

Goodness is a remarkable attribute that radiates positivity, kindness, and compassion. It is a quality that transcends all boundaries and brings people together. In a world filled with uncertainty and turmoil, goodness shines like a beacon of light. It is evident in the small acts of kindness we show towards others, the selfless gestures that brighten someone's day, and the genuine care and concern we have for the well-being of those around us. Goodness spreads like ripples in water, touching the lives of many, and inspiring others to follow suit. It has the power to heal wounds, bridge divides, and restore faith in humanity. Embracing goodness not only enriches our own lives but also creates a ripple effect that transcends time and space, leaving a lasting impact on the world.

God’s Faithfulness, His unwavering commitment to upholding His promises and obligations in eternity past and eternity future. It is the reliable anchor that enables believers to keep relationships, friendships, and partnerships grounded in trust and dependability. In a world where uncertainty and change are constant companions, faithfulness serves as a comforting presence, reminding us that there are still constants we can rely on. It is through the consistent display of faithfulness that we build strong connections, fostering a sense of security and stability within our interactions. Whether it is in personal relationships, professional endeavors, or even in our own commitment to self-growth, faithfulness remains a guiding principle that shapes our actions and character. It is an invaluable virtue that not only elevates our own lives but also inspires and influences those around us. With each steadfast act of faithfulness, we breathe life into the bonds we establish, nurturing them and allowing them to flourish with unwavering strength.

Gentleness is the graceful art of handling situations delicately and with kindness, allowing others to feel safe and understood. Yet, gentleness is often undervalued, overshadowed by assertiveness or toughness. However, it is in the quiet strength of gentleness that true empathy and connection can be found. It has the power to soothe the wounded soul, mend broken bonds, and create harmony where there was once discord. In a world filled with chaos and noise, gentleness often has a profound impact it can have on our interactions and relationships.

Lastly, Self-control is a virtue that not only empowers individuals, but also allows them to navigate life's challenges with grace and clarity. In a world that often encourages instant gratification and impulsive behavior, self-control is a characterisitc of a believer. The Holy Spirit enables us to abstain from sex, drunkeness,

becomes even more vital. Although it may seem like a daunting task, there are various ways in which we can lengthen and strengthen our self-control.
First and foremost, developing self-awareness lays the foundation for building self-control. The Holy Spirit empowers us to make informed decisions, withstand temptations, and overcome obstacles on the path towards a more godly life.

The Holy Spirit engages in a continuous process of sanctification within us, unraveling the threads of our lives and intricately weaving them anew. This transformative work of salvation is not a singular event but rather an ongoing journey, stretching out before us like a never-ending horizon. With each passing day, the Holy Spirit refines our hearts, molds our character, and purifies our intentions, drawing us ever closer to the image of Christ. In this progressive sanctification, we find solace and assurance, knowing that God's hand is guiding us, and that His transformative power is at work within us, shaping us into vessels of His grace and love.

We can help to cultivate these fruits in our lives but ultimately they are the fruits of the Holy Spirit manifesting in Your life and not our work. All Glory to God who promises to conform us into His Son’s image. Romans 8:29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.

John 15:4-5 NKJV As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.

Notice how there is no mention on if someone or how often they go to church, whether or not they serve in church, whether or not they have read the Bible from cover to cover and can qoute Scripture expertly. There is also no mention of being born and raised in a Christian home, fasting, leading small group, praying with you for hours, hosting Bible study or being a pastor’s child. Yet, so many people are easily deceived by these outward pharasical signs thinking these ae what make someone a Christian. Unfortunately, i fell for this due to ignorance of the Bible and naivety of the world. Jesus said in Matthew 7:15-20 Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them. Our Lord has spoken so be a #FruitInspector

Conversely, if a professing Christian’s character is not a reflection of the above virtues, it means the Holy spirit is not in them and they are NOT a child of God, but a child of the devil. Ye are of God, my little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world. 1 John 4:4 Therefore, these fruits WILL show up and mark a believers life over time. If someone is not sowing to the Spirit of God, then they are sowing to the flesh. Galatians 5:19-2119 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. “Practice” is emphasized here to show that this is a habitual thing, a lifestyle. No one born of God practices the aforementioned. We can still fall short and manifest these, but a true believer will repent and run to God confessing the sin. A true Jesus follower CANNOT stay in unbroken unrepentant sin. 1 John 5:18 No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God.

”If a person claims to be a Christian but lives in defiance of God’s Word, then that person is showing the world he or she is unsaved. No one who continues to live in willful sin knows God. Because continual sin is incompatible with new life in Christ, living in unrepentant homosexuality, adultery, fornication, idolatry, or pathological lying is proof that no regenerative work of the Spirit has yet taken place in the heart, regardless of anyone’s claims to the contrary. A genuine Christian will not “deliberately, knowingly, and habitually” sin. It’s just not in their “spiritual DNA.” If you are comfortable in your sin and it doesn’t break your heart that you have sinned against a Holy God then I question your salvation. Before i got saved, i would watch porn and masturbate daily with no guilt, lying wasn’t a big deal to me, i harbored resentment and unforgiveness among many other sins. I vividly remember the time when I was dwelling in the depths of unrepentant unbroken sin. Each day seemed like a monotonous cycle, entangled in the web of my own misguided choices. The weight of guilt and shame pressed upon my soul, suffocating any flicker of hope that dared to ignite within me. In the depths of my despair, I yearned for a glimpse of light to guide me towards redemption. It was in this darkness that I realized the dire need to break free from the chains that bound me tightly. With each passing moment, I became increasingly aware of the consequences that my actions were inflicting upon my own spirit and those around me. This realization served as a catalyst, igniting a fervent desire to seek forgiveness, to mend what was broken, and to embark on a journey towards transformation and healing. Slowly, but steadily, I took the first steps on the path of repentance, determined to turn away from the depths of sin that had ensnared me for far too long. It was not an easy journey, as the remnants of my past mistakes constantly tugged at my conscience, tempting me to return to what felt familiar, yet ultimately destructive. But with each passing day, I grew stronger, fueled by the unwavering faith that the power of grace and redemption could transcend any darkness. Through prayer, reflection, and unyielding perseverance, I found solace in the loving arms of Jesus, knowing that no sin is too great to be redeemed. The journey towards repentance is an ongoing one, filled with highs and lows, but with each step, I find myself one stride closer to a life restored. The memories of my past may linger, serving as a reminder of the brokenness from which I emerged, but they no longer define me. For I am a testament to the transformative power of God’s gift of saving faith, and I walk forward, no longer shackled by the chains of unrepentant unbroken sin.