The theme passage for this month’s Box of Blessings comes from Paul’s letter to the Galatians, where he is warning them about false teachings and the challenges of being a follower of Christ. In chapter 5, he starts off by explaining the freedom of being a Christian. At the end of chapter 5 he discusses the Spirit versus the flesh, and encourages them to walk by the Spirit to avoid carrying out the desires of the flesh.
Just so there’s no confusion, he gives a list of the works of the flesh. And then he comes to the verse (verse 23) I’ve selected for this month’s Box:
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control."
What I love about this verse is how he uses the word “fruit” (singular) and not “fruits” (plural). When we walk by the Spirit, the result is not meant to be two or three of the nine characteristics he lists. The fruit of our walk should be all nine!What a gift of comfort and hope!
My prayer is that this month’s Box of Blessings will encourage you to walk in the Spirit.
bette@bettesboxofblessings.com