Fruit of the Spirit is in direct contrast with the acts of the sinful nature.( Gala. 5:19-21) It signifies the virtues that influence the character of a Christian. God does not want us to rely on our own efforts and abilities to be able to lead a good life. Our efforts to be good can result in a self –righteous arrogant hypocrisy. God gives His spirit so that we can produce fruit in our life. When the Holy Spirit indwells Fruit of the Spirit appears spontaneously without any unnatural stress and artificial toil.

Out of the nine traits which are listed as Fruit of the Spirit love, joy and peace are experienced within a person .Love must be unselfish as defined in I Corinth 13.Joy does not depend on what happens around us .The joy of the Lord keeps us happy in any situation.. (Phil 4:4) Peace does not change with circumstances. These three factors operate within us. Patience, kindness, goodness and gentleness are expressed outwardly in our interaction with others and of course are influenced by what dwells within us. Faithfulness and self-denial are shown in our relationship with God.

The Fruit of the Spirit is indeed a checklist to examine our spiritual maturity and health. A good test at the beginning of a new year.

1.Am I motivated to do for others what Christ has done for me?

2.Am I experiencing inner joy or does my happiness depend on what happens to me?

3.Do I possess the inner peace or am I easily disturbed?

4.Am I able to maintain a Godly perspective in the midst of irritating situations?

5.Am I kind to others? Or am I obsessed with “me, my, I and myself”?

6.Am I faithful to God and others? Or am I mean, hypocritical and indifferent’?

7.Do I allow the grace of God to flow through me?

8.Am I controlled by the desires of flesh or am I allowing the spirit of God to help me do what pleases God?

9.Am I gentle in my interactions with others or do my rude, thoughtless and abrupt words and actions offend others.

10.Do I use the words “sorry” and “thank you” liberally to mend and build relationship?

"May the New Year be blessed and May God make us all a blessing to many"

Dr. (Mrs.) Edriana Jeyasingh