Goodness (The Fruit of the Spirit in You)

Goodness                                                                                Day 72

And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

Galatians 6:9

Though often overlooked, farming is a necessary component of any economy. No matter the economic situation, there is always a need for food. Farmers occasionally are forced to reevaluate their dedication and commitment to farming when encountering seasons of drought, flooding, and ever-changing costs of fertilizer and produce. Yet, they proceed with dedication and the belief that in time, they will see the benefits of their planted crop.

As believers, we too face questions of whether to continue living lives that are pleasing and honorable to God. Our culture grows more toward being self-focused, seeking immediate pleasure, and satisfying indulgences. So, it can become easy for us to abandon our efforts of goodness to others, if there is no immediate gratification in return. Without immediate rewards, it is easy to forget about doing good and, instead, choose to simply focus on ourselves. However, just as the dedicated farmer, we too should have faith that we will reap what we have sown.

Let us not be concerned with being rewarded for our good works. Our due season may be soon, or it may not come until we reach eternity. Nevertheless, let us continue to show the light of Christ in us and through our good works. Let us remember that our eternal reward will be immensely greater than any we could ever receive now.

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Fruit of the Holy Spirit

Fruit of the Holy Spirit in You - Goodness (Romans 12:2) Day 71

Goodness (The Fruit of the Spirit in You)

Goodness                                                                                Day 71

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Romans 12:2

Just like the peer pressure experienced by teenagers trying to find their identity, Christians also find themselves challenged with how to adapt to an ever-changing world. Do we allow our opinions on issues to change or shift away from God’s teachings? Do we conform to the ways of the world? Do we seek our answers about present day issues from our eternal God or from shifting public perceptions on temporary issues?

Instead of changing who we are as Christians in order to avoid discomfort when we differ with those of the world, let us find our comfort in God. He will renew our minds so that we may stay focused on Him and His ways. By being transformed from the world’s standards to His standards, we can reveal to the world what is the proper way of God, whether the world agrees or not.

Yes, we have free will. Yes, we have the freedom to engage in various activities according to our laws, even when we know the acts are sinful. However, let us not be misguided by what the world finds acceptable.

We have a heavenly master who reveals to us what is spiritually and eternally proper. Let us be transformed to the standards of God’s Word, and not conform to the ways of this world. Let us stand on His Word and have confidence in “what is good and acceptable and [the] perfect will of God.”

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Fruit of the Holy Spirit in You - Goodness ( Ephesians 2:10) Day 70

Fruit of the Holy Spirit in You - Goodness ( Ephesians 2:10) Day 70

Goodness (The Fruit of the Spirit in You)

Goodness                                                                                Day 70

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

Ephesians 2:10

Pastor Rick Warren’s book, The Purpose Driven Life, aided readers in understanding God’s vision for their lives. The book detailed how we are to love God, love others, and live a life pleasing to God. While Pastor Warren provided a detailed and contemporary guide to living a life of purpose, Paul wrote about it succinctly in his letter to the Ephesians.

Paul’s letter reminds us that a creator has an intended purpose in mind for His creations. Our Creator allowed for us to be saved by grace for His good works. While we may find personal pleasure and enjoyment with our eyes, ears, tongues, and limbs, these are not the purposes of our lives in Christ. As His workmanship, we should walk in the path He has laid before us - to serve Him by serving others.

Let us be thankful for grace. Let us find the good works to which we can and will commit ourselves. By serving others, we may serve God. Through fellowship with others, let us worship God. Let us always remember, who we are and whose we are.

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Fruit of the Holy Spirit

Fruit of the Holy Spirit in You - Goodness (1 John 3:17) Day 69

Goodness (The Fruit of the Spirit in You)

Goodness                                                                                Day 69

But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?

1 John 3:17

Panhandlers can often be found in most large cities. They commonly hold signs asking for money or food. Upon seeing these signs, each of us has decided whether to roll down our car windows and contribute to a cause that we may have a legitimate reason to question. There are other times when we will learn of those who have a particular need and are not broadcasting their situation for all to know. Yet, because assisting them may inconvenience us more than simply rolling down our window, we refuse to help.

Are we afraid to leave our comfort zones to do good for others? Do we cling to our privacy and refuse to offer a bed or couch to a family for more than a one night stay? Do we care so much about our schedules and car interiors that we refuse to provide someone with a ride so that (s)he may get to work to support his/her family? Some who are unable to bear children may feel led by God to adopt, but refuse because it is not the way they desired to have children.

Let us not only desire to do good for others, but let us seek out the ways to do so. The opportunity to act may not always present itself as someone holding a sign underneath a flashing light. It may be posted in an expression on a solemn face, waiting for us to ask if we can help. Let us show that the love of God abides in us, through our good works.

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