The Fruit of the Spirit Part 1

How do we know that Jesus, Immanuel (God-with-us), is really with us? Paul answers that question beautifully in his letter to the disciples in Galatia who must have been wondering the same thing. Paul writes: the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). When we experience any of these gifts in our daily lives, we know that Christ’s Spirit is at work.

The first fruit of the Spirit is love. It is first in place and priority. Love of God, neighbor, and self are the most important Divine commands (Matthew 22:36-40). Loving others as Jesus loves, is the one command of our Leader (John 13:34-35). Choosing the most loving thought, word, or action in any particular situation never fails to bring us closest to what Jesus would have us do and be. Disciples live by the standard of love. This is a very demanding standard, and it is a standard that brings purpose and meaning to life.

Here is the good news of this first fruit of the Spirit, as well as the other eight, love is a gift not an achievement. Paul wants us to avoid self-righteousness. Paul wants us to know that love is a sign that the living Spirit of Christ is present. We can only be loving as we first receive God’s unconditional love. This love fills us to overflowing so that we can spill love into all the lives we touch.

If you experience and share love, this is evidence of Christ’s living Spirit in your life. Let love grow!

Yours in Christ,

Marc