fruitful spirits

Thursday, October 31, 2013 (5:53 a.m.)

Holy Father God,

How I thank You. Order is taking place in our home. There is a routine of sorts. Friendship. Love. And a good degree of joy and peace. Thank You Father for I realize this comes only from You.

As I look to You and consider all You are doing in and for us, I would be acutely remiss not to acknowledge these changes as being a direct result of Your Holy Spirit's work in each of us. On this particular day that is becoming more and more prominent in our society, how extremely fitting that the Spirit I'm most aware of is Yours.

Turning to Galatians 5:22-23 first in Your Word and then in the Illustrated Bible Handbook, I am excited to read “the Spirit will produce fruit within us which stand in stark contrast to the dark products of the sinful nature.” Today's date seems to be representing these dark products more and more.

Thank You Father for the Truth of Your Word. The everlasting, unchanging Truth of Your Holy Word. Thank You that we are promised that “the fruit the Spirit produces in a person's life is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Easy-To-Read Version).

Thank You that on this day where the focus can so often lead toward darker things, we are reminded of our opportunity to enjoy fruitful spirits.

The Message says it thusly, “But what happens when we live God's way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard – things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.”

Thank You Father for growing in us our fruitful spirits. May they be especially evident this day. Use me to freely share You fruit with others. I love You. Thank You. Amen.

(353 words ~ 6:57 a.m.)