But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Galatians 5:22-23
The fruit of the Spirit is described in Galatians by giving us a variety of its traits. All those qualities together make the whole. The Greek word for fruit is karpos, which is singular. The fruit of the Spirit is a single product, encompassing those traits (and more!) The inward character that is formed by the work of the Spirit can be outwardly identified by the manifestations in Paul’s list.
Tim Keller writes, "The real fruit of the Spirit always grow up together. They are one.”
The identifying characteristics of a Spirit-filled life are intertwined. It is when they are seen together that they mark the believer. There are people who don’t follow God that may be kind. Or exhibit self-control. But when the Holy Spirit works in a life, the product is a character that exhibits them all. Those whose life exudes the harmony of these traits carry the family resemblance.
When I see someone totally yielded to Him, the ripened fruit is clearly evident. It refreshes and feeds all around them. I want the Spirit to find willing soil in my soul to produce His fruit, flourishing in every aspect. And I hope you get more than a glimpse as it grows in me.
