Introduction
The fruit of the Spirit is what makes us different from others, molding us into the image of the Living Christ. As we submit ourselves, our plans, our likes, and dislikes to the leadership of the Holy Spirit, this fruit will begin to blossom in us. Slowly, it will take root within and be seen outwardly in us.
The Gift of Self-Control
How awesome is our God that He has given us His Spirit so we might walk in His fruit of self-control! Losing control of our thoughts, tongue, appetite, and emotions happens regularly. In His infinite mercy, God knew we need help to live a Spirit-controlled life.
“… for God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline,” (2 Timothy 1:7).
The Importance of Self-Control
We have already been given the Spirit of self-control. It is crucial to follow the Spirit’s prompting and live a self-controlled life. This is an ongoing process, a daily struggle, and sometimes a moment-to-moment decision.
“Like a city breached, without walls, is one who lacks self-control,” (Proverbs 25:28).
Maintaining Self-Control
When the Spirit of God is in control of our life, we automatically become self-controlled. After returning from retreats, we find ourselves under the Spirit’s control. However, moving away from spiritual disciplines like personal prayer, Holy Mass, frequent confessions, and fasting can lead to losing Spirit-led self-control.
Areas of Self-Control
There are areas in life where we need the Holy Spirit’s help to manifest self-control. In some areas, we may be strong, and in others, we may be weak. Allowing the Spirit to work within us, especially in weak areas, will change us from glory to glory.
The Holy Bible warns us that without self-control, we become slaves to our desires. Self-control helps us grow in the Spirit, while lack of it stunts our spiritual growth. Although self-control is a fruit of the Holy Spirit, we must also make conscious efforts to bear that fruit. It is a collaboration between God’s ‘Grace’ and our ‘works.’
“One who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and one whose temper is controlled than one who captures a city,” (Proverbs 16:32).
The Gentleness
The Need for Gentleness
It is wonderful that we Christians are called to be gentle and meek. Gentleness is essential, yet many times we are harsh and rash. The fruit of gentleness is given to us to be gentle in difficult times and with difficult people.
“… in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and reverence,” (1 Peter 3:15-16).
Learning Gentleness from Jesus
If there’s something we desperately need to learn from Jesus Christ, it is to be meek and gentle. Jesus said, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls,” (Matthew 11:29).
As we unite with Jesus, we become gentle and humble of heart. The Holy Bible says, “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth,” (Matthew 5:5).
Practicing Gentleness
The fruit of the Spirit helps us radiate Jesus’ character in our lives. Allowing the Holy Spirit to work in us makes us gentle. Many struggle to be gentle even in peaceful times due to past experiences. Healing is needed to leave past traumas behind and move forward.
We must bring our issues before the Lord for healing rather than pushing them aside. Opening up before God and godly persons allows His light to heal us.
“I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace,” (Ephesians 4:1-3).
Benefits of Gentleness
Jesus left us a beautiful example of gentleness. Despite persecution and pressure, He remained gentle and calm. He told us:
“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28).
We should allow the Holy Spirit to mold us to the likeness of Jesus, being gentle with ourselves and others.
“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger,” (Proverbs 15:1).
Gentleness helps us remain calm in stressful times. God loves when we are gentle in difficult situations.
The Faithfulness
The Importance of Faithfulness
Faithfulness makes us people of integrity, known in the spiritual world for our commitment to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The decision to be faithful starts with us and is then empowered by the Holy Spirit.
“The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do this,” (1 Thessalonians 5:24).
God’s Role in Our Faithfulness
I remember once, the Holy Spirit said, “Many times you stop, but I push you from behind!” This prophetic Word is true; in moments of doubt, the Holy Spirit encourages us to continue following Christ.
The Lord also spoke, “I will never allow you to become lukewarm.” Despite reasons to become lukewarm, God’s love moves powerfully within, quickening us to follow His purposes.
“I am grateful to Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because he judged me faithful and appointed me to his service,” (1 Timothy 1:12).
Our Role in Faithfulness
In moments of weakness, we may be unfaithful to God. During these times, the Holy Spirit whispers words of encouragement, empowering us to stay with God.
“… How then could I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9).
What made Prophet Joseph faithful to his employer? His desire to walk with God and his faithfulness towards God and man.
God is faithful to each of us, and He expects us to be faithful to Him. The Spirit within us induces faithfulness to God and all He has given us. As we walk in the Spirit, He strengthens us to be faithful in difficult situations.
“Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received,” (1 Peter 4:10).
Faithfulness in Practice
Good stewards are faithful, using all that God gives them to bring glory to God and bless many. Faithfulness keeps them holding on to God and His principles in good and bad times. As we are filled with the Holy Spirit and led by Him, He strengthens us in areas where we lack faithfulness. This fruit of faithfulness is essential in our personal life.
Many people worldwide are faithful in their different calls of life, and we rejoice in it. God says, “Your faithfulness comes from Me.”
The Need for Faithfulness
In challenging times, faithfulness is a driving force in our walk with Jesus. It sustains us when we feel disillusioned, disheartened, or discouraged, and even when our good deeds backfire. In such times, faithfulness quietly prods us on in our daily Christian walk.
