“No one ought to be confident in his own strength when he undergoes temptation. For whenever we endure evils courageously, our long-suffering comes from Christ.” — Augustine

The Fruit of the Spirit

Last week, I discussed what the fruit of love is and looks like. We ended with Galatians 5:22–23, which lists the fruit of the Spirit. Today, I’m breaking it down so it comes alive in your mind’s eye.

“But the fruit of the Spirit [the result of His presence within us] is love [unselfish concern for others], joy, [inner] peace, patience [not the ability to wait, but how we act while waiting], kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.” (Gal. 5:22–23 AMP)

Paul chose fruit (not “works” or “gifts”) because he’s conveying a full harvest of virtues. It’s singular—every believer is called to have all nine.

Love. God’s love bears little resemblance to the emotional meaning the world gives it. Love is the foundation of all the other fruit. Love says, I will treat you well because you are a child of God. Jesus is our model—self-sacrificing, steadfast, and holy (John 3:16). “The love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” (Rom. 5:5) Love requires maturity, wisdom, discernment, and healthy boundaries. Look for simple, sacrificial ways to bless others without expecting a return—hold the door, let someone go ahead, pay for a meal. If love isn’t your foundation, you’ll misrepresent the rest of the fruit.

Joy. Joy is an inner gladness rooted in God’s presence, not circumstances. “In Your presence is fullness of joy.” (Ps. 16:11) Happiness fluctuates; joy endures. If you’re struggling to feel glad, change your thinking (Prov. 23:7, 23:19). Joy is a choice anchored in what God has done and who He is. “The joy of the LORD is your strength.” (Neh. 8:10) Jesus said we will face trouble, but He has overcome (John 16:33).

Peace. Peace is inner quietness and trust in God’s sovereignty. It frees your mind from worry and fear. “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” (Rom. 8:28) Let Christ’s peace rule your heart (Col. 3:15). “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (1 Pet. 5:7)

Longsuffering (Patience). Patience is self-control under pressure—being comfortable with being uncomfortable. It’s a marathon, not a sprint; the Spirit trains your endurance. Patience restrains irritation and responds calmly when annoyed or injured.

Kindness (Gentleness). Kindness is active benevolence—attending to the needs of others as God does for you. Practice tangible, thoughtful care at home, at work, and with strangers. “A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself.” (Prov. 11:17)

Goodness. Goodness is moral generosity—responding to evil without retaliation and absorbing offense with a loving response. It looks like open-handed giving. Jesus teaches radical generosity (see Matt. 5:40–42).

Faithfulness. Faithfulness is dependability and trustworthiness—keeping your word, showing up, believing for the best. Ask yourself: If everyone I know rated my reliability, what would they say? Faithfulness reflects God’s steadfast nature.

Gentleness (Meekness). Gentleness is strength under control. Think humility and consideration. Jesus cleansed the temple yet never lost sight of love and truth—anger at sin, not people. Gentleness confronts without cruelty.

Self-control. Self-control is victory over the flesh—harnessing desires and appetites so they serve God’s purposes. Fasting trains this muscle. While discipline is uncomfortable in the moment, it produces freedom and life. The lust of the flesh, the eyes, and the pride of life are not from the Father (1 John 2:16).

How to Assess Your Fruit (1–5 Scale). (1) never true, (2) rarely, (3) occasionally, (4) frequently, (5) always