Fruit Production

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit." Galatians 5:22-25

A healthy fruit-bearing tree, bush or vine will produce luscious fruit in season. Jesus said the person who follows Him will be recognized by the spiritual fruit he or she produces. The Holy Spirit of God resides in the Christian, and as that Christian yields to the Holy Spirit, more and more of the Spirit's fruit is revealed. It's good to do a self-check every so often to see how our fruit production is coming along. Is our love for others increasing? Are we more joyful? Does peace rule in our hearts? Do we demonstrate more patience? Is kindness evident in our lives? How about goodness? Can we say our faithfulness has grown?  Do we have a gentle spirit? Are we exhibiting self-control? If an honest self-examination reveals that some fruit is lacking, we can call on the Holy Spirit to work in us to increase production. This requires submitting to Him. That is how we "walk by the Spirit".