Fruit Of The Spirit

Live by the Spirit, I say, and do not gratify the desires of the flesh. For what the flesh desires is opposed to the Spirit, and what the Spirit desires is opposed to the flesh; for these are opposed to each other, to prevent you from doing what you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not subject to the law. Now the works of the flesh are obvious: fornication, impurity, licentiousness, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealously, anger, quarrels, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these. I am warning you, as I warned you before: those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

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. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also be guided by the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, competing against one another, envying one another.

Galatians 5:16-26

We all have things we need to get done today, whether we have written them down or not. They are important for us to accomplish.

While a “to-do” list is important, a “to-be” list is even more valuable. Don’t try for success, try for value to God.

The apostle Paul encouraged all of us to be concerned with our character. Figure out what you need to do. Patience, gentleness and kindness, or strong words of wisdom will come in at various times with various people. Listen to God through prayer and the Bible to receive direction.

Make sure your “to-do” list includes time spent praying and reading God’s Word. It is a good start for your “to-be” list.

It is not what you do but who you are that is most important.

Our Daily Bread – March 8, 2008