Monday 14 August 2017

Fruits of the Spirit

Fruits of the Spirit
The Apostle Paul wrote,
“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.” Galatians 5:22.23.
These are the attributes of all who truly believe in Christ Jesus. If we are truly following Christ we should be known as exhibiting these attributes.
The apostle Paul writing to the Romans, states,
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”Romans 12:18.
Paul writing to Titus said,
“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.”Titus 3:1,2.
Living at peace with all men is a Christian attribute. Christianity is not a confrontational faith. Jesus said,
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20.
Jesus did not say to force anyone to become a Christian. He never said to argue with anyone, judge them or condemn them in any way.
 The job of the Christian is to present the gospel message to those around them, then let them decide for themselves if they believe or not.
The apostle Peter writes,
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.  
Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. 
Dear friends,
 I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.  
Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” 1 Peter 2:9-12.
Is your life truly reflecting the fruits of the Spirit?
Please think about it.

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