Habits Led By The Spirit

“By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things.” - Galatians 5:22-23  
 
 
The final three fruits mentioned in today’s key verses are habits led by the Spirit. These are graces that will guide your general conduct as a believer. They are: faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These are three traits that have become extremely rare in today’s society.  
 
Faithfulness, this is something that has almost become demonized. We live in a nation that is constantly urging you to go for whatever is best. To forget loyalty and leave anything (or anyone) in hopes to find something better. This is not at all what Christ was talking about when He instructed us to practice faithfulness. This is something we can show to Him, through our obedience, but also to our loved ones. Whether it is a spouse, children, or even extended family and friends. No matter who you are, there will always be people counting on you. Stay faithful to them.
 
Gentleness, a quality we rarely exercise except with those we love the most, and even when they frustrate us, it seems to go out the window. Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” When someone is angry and they lash out, it will do you no good to respond in a similar manner. Instead, choose to be gentle, your words will reach much further. Often times, it is not what you say, but how you say it that gets communicated. Gentleness will often get across your message better than a loud harsh tone ever could.
 
Self-control, a quality that is harder than ever to exercise. In today’s world, you can have just about anything you want, at the touch of a button. Name the sin, and you can likely begin enjoying it in a few moments. It is easier than ever to get what you want, when you want. But remember, God rewards those who exercise self-control. If you want to find God’s very best for you, reject what you can have in the moment, that you know is not right, and instead choose what you want most. God will reward your self-control.
 
When you choose to exercise these fruits, God will reward you. They have become less and less common in today’s society, but that does not mean God will not pay a premium for them. Not only will you stand out, be able to influence more people, but you will be rewarded by your Heavenly Father!