Galatians 5:22-23

Have you ever wished that you could remember all nine characteristics of the fruit of the Spirit? And in their correct order! I wanted to for years. My problem was that I would miss one and end up blowing the rest of the list. It's embarrassing when it doesn't just happen in your mind, but out loud and during a sermon. Along the way, I'd end up adding a few that weren’t there to begin with.

It’s really not that hard once you figure out this simple memory technique. It did miracles for me. Let me give you the verses, then I’ll show you how it’s done.

Galatians 5:22-23 (NASB) The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Start by remembering that the fruit of the Spirit has nine distinct characteristics or qualities. The first three have only ONE syllable:

Love, Joy, Peace

The second three have TWO syllables:

Patience, Kindness, Goodness

The final three have THREE syllables:

Faithfulness, Gentleness, Self-Control

Always remember when you start with love, you will end up with self-control.

When you are filled with love you will have an abundance of joy. This happens to be life’s secret for obtaining lasting peace.

When you are patient with people, it will lead to kindness. It’s really pretty obvious when you think about it. In addition, kind people are the ones that you can expect to be good and to do good. That's goodness.

Once the Spirit of God produces these six qualities in your life, faithfulness sets in. Faithful people are the ones you always run to first. It’s simply because they can be counted on. Trusted! They’re never inconsistent or wishy-washy. This leads to gentleness—a rare but beautiful quality you will come across during your lifetime that manifests itself in a few believers. Whatever may be fragile or weak, the gentle treat with a delicate touch. These are the people you find yourself wanting to be around most. You’re never on your guard, only at ease. In fact, you find yourself being at your best when you're in their presence.

Then there’s self-control which is something of a misnomer. It’s not the same thing as self-discipline which is a work done completely in the flesh. Self-control is about the “self” being under the control of the Spirit.

If you were looking for another description of this reality, you might call it “The Victorious Christian Life." It’s the kind of life you were meant to have. It’s the best life imaginable, and it's God’s desire for you to have it today.

I’m the lead pastor of The Movement Church of San Antonio. I challenge you to remember these nine qualities of the fruit of the Spirit. I would also like to invite you to come and join us for some powerful teaching. I promise you that it will transform your life. You have God's Word on it!

Blessings,

Call or Text: (210) 897-9787

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