The simplicity of the nine characteristics outlined in Galatians 5 might lead the casual reader to overlook the depth and richness contained in the description of a life truly and completely filled with the Holy Spirit.
A full 30 years now since surrendering my life to Christ, I still struggle to consistently display the full set intact in the purity for which it is intended — at least all at the same time.
Still, the security and confidence I have in being a child of the King provide the environment needed to grow in each of the areas.
Making my way to showcase all nine characteristics at the same time all the time seems to be a lifelong journey — a journey dependent on the investment of others in me.
Seasonal guides
Reflecting on my half century, I can see how God has been faithful to place people in my life to help guide me during specific seasons, which assures me He will continue to do the same going forward.
The thread of mentors may not have known who came before or who would follow but each grabbed the baton on cue and stewarded its delivery to the next runner in the relay — all while balancing his or her own life issues.
From parents and extended family who modeled a fierce love, kindness and goodness to Sunday School teachers, pastors and other church leaders who faithfully pointed me to the true Author of joy and peace, I have been surrounded and influenced by ripe fruit since birth.
The love and gentleness of a dear friend guided me to the foot of the Cross, and the forbearance (patience) of an older mentor instilled the concepts of discipleship and making disciples. Many mentors have taken turns discipling me along the way.
Whether it be a fellow church member, ministry peer or dear friend, countless believers ahead of me on the journey have reached back time after time to grab my hand and pull me along.
Sometimes the investment comes in the form of support and encouragement, while other times it sends me to my knees for repentance and re-centering.
Many bolster me through praying and reminding me to keep my eyes on Jesus. Others show love and support through their actions and how well they care for me. Still, others offer a listening ear and comforting shoulder during those times the load seems a bit too heavy.
The gentle guidance from mentors noting hazards up ahead, pointing out weaknesses I need to address and challenging me to find a better way keeps me humbly seeking true self discipline.
Finding the proper rhythms for my day and in my overall faith walk isn’t easy with all the pressures and demands that seem to grow extra tentacles each morning, but the effort is possible with those willing to share their secrets and show the way.
As I work to cull the withered parts of my heart to make more room for the Holy Spirit to nurture the fruit planted in me, I am reminded to look around for others who might need to borrow my clippers for a time.
Following the model of those who noticed me and sacrificed to help me grow, I am inspired to do the same for others.
The ripple effect makes sense as person after person flourishes from the investment and then looks to share the gift rather than hoard it for him- or herself.
Prepped and ready
The Holy Spirit will surface the who, what, when, where, why and how at exactly the right time. All we have to do is dive in, knowing we are covered by the grace of our Lord.
As each follower of Jesus Christ showcases genuine love, joy, peace, forbearance (patience), kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control, the environment around him or her will no doubt shine brightly with beams from the one true Light.
The hope we have in Christ gives us the courage and strength to not only face each new day, no matter what it brings, but also to seek wisdom and nourishment from the Word in order to nurture our reflection of Him — to genuinely broadcast the fruit of the Spirit.
EDITOR’S NOTE — This is an excerpt of a piece I contributed to WMU’s “Because of Hope: Reflections of Faith” book that can be purchased at wmustore.com.
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