The problem of the Christian life is based on the fact that so long as the Christian lives in this world he is, so to speak, two trees: the old tree of the flesh and the new tree of the divine nature implanted by the new birth.  The challenge is keeping barren the old tree and making fruitful the new tree.  This dilemma is solved by walking in the Spirit, which is the only way to consistently overcome the sinful desires of our human nature.  Instead of removing the old nature, God in His infinite wisdom, gave us His own Holy Spirit to indwell us.  The believer's proper response in the tug of war between the flesh and the Spirit is to yield to the Spirit.

Notice the difference: "works" of the flesh & "fruit" of the Spirit.  Works are produced by human energy.  Fruit is grown as a branch abides in the vine (John 15:5).  Also, pay particular attention to verse 22, and you'll see the word "fruit" is singular, not plural.  The Holy Spirit produces one type of fruit: Christlikeness. This means that by embracing the Spirit of God in our lives, we have access to those attributes which typify Christ.  As long as there is a consistent connection to Him (through fellowship, prayer, communion, studying of the scriptures, etc.), we will bear ripe fruit.  We become like Him when we behold Him (II Corinthians 3:18).

Bible teachers, from years past, have correctly pointed out that every one of these virtues is foreign to the soil of the human heart.  As one continues to grow in Christ, however, these are the virtues that describe the life of the child of God.

Love: The story told in its fullness at the cross of Calvary; the glue that unifies & identifies all believers.  Love is what God is and what we ought to be.  (i.e.  charity, affection, benevolence, etc. -- see I Corinthians Ch. 13)
Joy: Contentment and satisfaction with God and how He handles situations; bliss.  This is a GREAT attribute to possess because it can serve as a great witness.  Joy speaks highly of God when situations come up that have the potential to crush you.
Peace: Freedom from hostility or confusion; harmony, tranquility. (i.e. when someone deliberately does something to get under your skin, and it has absolutely no angering effect on you.) Peace in the life of Jesus can be seen in Luke 8:22-25.
Longsuffering: Means to “SUFFER FOR A LONG TIME”!  :o)  Seriously, this is persevering patience borne out of affliction, annoyances and persecution.  Jesus models longsuffering when he said “Father forgive them; for they know not what they do.” (see Luke 23:32-34)
Kindness: The supernatural ability to show compassion and consideration in all things.  This is perhaps best explained in the attitude of the Lord toward little children. (see Mark 10:14)
Goodness: The act of doing what you know is right, based on God’s Word.  Goodness in action can be seen in Luke 10:30-37.
Faith: Trust in God, confidence in our fellow man, as well as being found trustworthy and reliable.  (see Hebrews Ch. 11)
Meekness/Gentleness: Submissive, compliant or being a servant to others.  An example of this can be found in John 13:1-17 when Jesus washed the disciples’ feet.
Temperance/Self-Control: Keeping yourself in check by exhibiting discipline and moderation.  When Paul wrote this, he was primarily referring to issues of a sexual nature.

To end this list (verse 23b), Paul says there is no law against exhibiting these wonderful traits!  You will not be reprimanded for having too much love or self-control.  You cannot be cited for displaying peace or longsuffering.  These virtues are pleasing to God, beneficial to others and good for ourselves.  The good news in that becomes clearer when you remember that Jesus’ death removed the yoke of the law.  And if the fruit of the Spirit is growing in you and keeps you from under the rule of the law, imagine what the converse is when you do NOT allow these characteristics to manifest in you.  You basically handcuff yourself back to the works of the flesh, which is being under the control of sin.  Remember, you will only bear this fruit if you are attached to the right source.  It might be a good idea to check the roots of the tree you’re connected to.

Lastly, it’s important to note that if a Christian is not bearing any fruit at a particular time, his/her salvation does not need scrutinizing.  None of us expect to find every tree with lush, green leaves during the winter months.  Nevertheless, we all are constantly producing something whether it be good or corrupted, visible or invisible.  The lack of any visible fruit over an extended period of time, however, might suggest that there may be some pruning that needs to take place.

Today’s Challenge: Just as I posed this challenge to you last week, I'm asking it again.  As you read through each of the descriptions from Galatians 5:22-23, where did you see your own reflection