Galatians 5:22-23
In Galatians 5:13, Paul has already stated that one is not to abuse his or her liberty in Christ to indulge in carnal activities, but rather to serve one another in love. With this in mind, he proceeds to list the fruit of the Spirit. Let’s define them.
Verse 22:
Love
This is affection characterized by veneration, the deep and constant interest of the welfare of another. Love can only be known by the actions it prompts.
Joy
God wants His people to be happy, to rejoice and be glad, so He sent His Spirit to dwell within us. Our joy springs forth from that relationship.
Peace
The Lord desires harmonious relationships between people. Freedom from fear is foundational to peace.
Longsuffering
God wants us to exercise patience, forbearance and self-restraint. The Spirit will lead us to see a situation from God’s perspective before we react (or overreact).
Gentleness
This is a beautiful word which means “sweet reasonableness.” It carries the idea of mildness, kindness and graciousness.
Goodness
This refers to what is pleasing to God through our fair and honest dealings with one another. It points to a person who acts beneficially toward significant others and all others.
Faith
This is a term that refers to firm and loyal beliefs. It is conviction based on absolute assurances.
Verse 23:
Meekness
This bespeaks the humble and gentle disposition which should be typical of the child of God. It means having a temperament by which we accept His dealings with us without argument or resistance.
Temperance
This powerful word blends the concepts of strength, sobriety and self-control. It pictures one who is self-restrained in his/her attitudes and habits. It means mastery of self.
Joy is love smiling.
Peace is love resting.
Patience is love waiting.
Kindness is love sensitive.
Goodness is love selfless.
Faithfulness is love consistent.
Gentleness is love yielding.
Self-control is love restrained.
What fruits are you displaying in your life?