Reading further in Francis Chan’s book Forgotten God, I realized that the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23 is just that–Fruit OF the Spirit. Not fruit of my works. Not fruit of my righteousness checklist. Not fruit of all my striving.

When I accept Christ, acknowledge the Holy Spirit in me, SUMBIT and allow Him to work, the fruit of the Spirit is the result. In some it may be change that comes by slow degrees. In others it may be over night, but when we open ourselves up to Him and seek his face, we can’t help but be changed.

Yes, as Romans 7:21-25 says, we will still have struggles against the sin in our lives. But, they will be ones that we win because the Spirit that raised Christ is working on our behalf. How powerful is that!

Then when people walk into our church buildings, instead of seeing normal, they will see GOD.

-They will see Love stronger than what the world offers.

-They will see Joy that without God has no explanation.

-They will see Peace that passes understanding.

-They will see Patience that should have ended long ago.

-They will see Kindness that goes beyond what is required.

-They will see Goodness that no philanthropist has ever shown.

-The will see Faithfulness that holds on when others have given up.

-They will see Self-control that defines human will.

And, instead of seeing us, they will see GOD and HIS POWER working among us.