Fruit Versus Gifts

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance…” Galatians 5:22-23a

“For to one is given…wisdom; to another…knowledge…faith…gifts of healing…working of miracles…prophecy…But all these worketh that one and the self-same Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.” I Corinthians 12:8-11

Are you growing the fruit of good Christian character in your life?  Are you earnestly desiring the gifts of the Spirit of God to operate freely in your life? Note the difference between FRUIT and GIFTS.

“Fruit” requires a season of growth.  “Gifts” are given by the Holy Spirit as He wills.  “Fruit” takes time to develop “in [its] season.” (See Psalm 1:3.) “Gifts” on the other hand, are to be exercised in the body of Christ for everyone’s benefit and edification by unction and direction of the Holy Spirit.

Review the nine fruit of the Spirit located in the verse above and purpose to cultivate and fertilize the soil of your heart today, that your life may yield good fruit.  Be desirous of receiving every good and perfect gift that comes from above.  (See James 1:17.)  God wants you healthy and productive in His kingdom.

Pray: “Tender Father, increase my fruit-bearing capabilities.  Help me labor not for the things that will never satisfy, but to sit at Your feet to learn of You.  Let Your gifts operate freely in my life.  I pray in Jesus’ Name. Amen”