What are examples of "good fruit" in a believer's life? Framing the Conversation Jesus said, “Every good tree bears good fruit” (Matthew 7:17). Scripture makes clear that genuine faith always shows itself in visible, Spirit-produced qualities and actions. Core Passage: Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control; against such things there is no law.” Breaking Down the Ninefold Fruit • Love – choosing sacrificial concern for others (John 13:35). • Joy – deep gladness rooted in Christ, not circumstances (1 Peter 1:8). • Peace – settled rest with God and people (Philippians 4:7). • Patience – long-suffering endurance toward trials and people (Colossians 3:12). • Kindness – tenderhearted deeds that mirror God’s mercy (Ephesians 4:32). • Goodness – moral integrity and generosity (Romans 15:14). • Faithfulness – reliability and loyalty to God and others (1 Corinthians 4:2). • Gentleness – strength under control, meekness that refuses harshness (Titus 3:2). • Self-control – Spirit-enabled mastery over desires (1 Corinthians 9:25). Additional Marks of Good Fruit • Repentance and obedience: “Produce fruit worthy of repentance” (Matthew 3:8). • Righteous living: “Filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:11). • Good works: “Let your light shine… so they may see your good works and glorify your Father” (Matthew 5:16). • Generosity: “Share with the saints in their needs” (Romans 12:13). • Praise and thanksgiving: “The fruit of lips that confess His name” (Hebrews 13:15). • Making disciples: “Whoever wins souls is wise” (Proverbs 11:30; cf. John 15:8). How This Fruit Grows • Abiding in Christ: “Apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). • Walking by the Spirit daily (Galatians 5:16). • Feeding on Scripture (Psalm 1:2-3). • Regular fellowship and mutual encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25). Living It Out Today • Seek opportunities to show practical kindness—prepare a meal, offer a ride, speak a timely word. • Replace complaining with gratitude to cultivate joy and peace. • Keep promises, arrive on time, and follow through, displaying faithfulness. • Respond to irritation with gentleness and patience rather than anger. • Practice disciplined habits―budgeting, balanced media use, healthy boundaries―as acts of self-control offered to God. The Spirit’s presence inevitably produces visible evidence. As we stay rooted in Christ and surrendered to His Word, our lives will naturally bear the good fruit that brings glory to the Father. |
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