Fruits of the Spirit
By Companion Jack A. Holloway
Illustrous Associate Grand Chaplain, Grand Council of Florida

Fruits
(Pubilc Domain)

 

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23

But this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. John 15:8

Companions, The nine fruits of the Spirit are personal traits or attitudes we cultivate to be the rule of our conduct as men. They are not a mysterious nine but basic principles that primarily enhance personal relationships as well as a satisfying sense of serving our Heavenly Father. Fruit is an apt metaphor for these traits as they grow best in a well-tended environment. We often wish we had a quick formula for acquiring spiritual gifts but that is like saying we want patience and we want it now. The serch for spiritual light and knowledge is a steady progression we cultivate as a way of life. As John 15:8 tells us: our Heavenly Father wants us to enjoy these spiritual gifts, for our sake and for His. As the writer of Psalm 119:133 knew, ask for help and follow through.

Heavenly Father, direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me. Amen.