Your Character and the Fruits of the Spirit

Last week, we discussed the importance of character development and why we must build our character as a child of God. I also asked you to do a self-audit of your character. By now, I hope you’ve identified the habits you need to let go of and the ones you need to embrace.

When people see you, can they say you are a child of God who has embraced His life? The Bible tells us, “By their fruits, you shall know them” (Matthew 7:16). So, what kind of fruits are you producing? What can people say about you? As children of God, our character should reflect the fruits of the Spirit as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23:

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”

Looking at the meaning of "fruit" in its literal sense, it represents the result or outcome of a process. Likewise, our lives are meant to produce results that show we carry God’s signature. If we claim to be children of God but do not exhibit the fruits of the Spirit, who are we really? An apple tree produces apples, an orange tree produces oranges, and a child of God should produce the fruits of the Spirit. If we claim to have the life of God, our fruits must reflect it. The Bible says, “By their fruits, you shall know them.” So, again, what fruits are you producing? 




The Lesson from the Fig Tree

Reflecting on the story of the fig tree in Mark 11, I initially found it confusing that Jesus cursed the tree even though it was not its season to bear fruit. However, upon deeper study, I discovered that a fig tree is not expected to produce leaves unless it also has fruit. This particular tree had leaves, creating the impression that it was bearing fruit, yet it had none.

This is a reflection of many so-called children of God—professing to have the life of God but lacking the evidence of the fruits of the Spirit. Christianity is not just about words; it is a lifestyle. Our faith must be evident in the way we live. I don’t want to be like that fig tree, appearing fruitful but found empty.

Declare this out loud: “My life will be a testament and evidence that I have truly met Jesus.”


The Importance of Bearing Fruit

In John 15:1-8, Jesus emphasizes the necessity of bearing fruit. He states that every branch that does not bear fruit will be cut off, while the one that bears fruit will be pruned to produce even more. This means transformation is a requirement in our walk with Christ. Our fruits must reflect His nature if we are truly connected to the True Vine.

John 15:7 highlights the importance of abiding in God’s Word. Just as we are called to remain in Him and bear fruit, verse 8 reminds us that we bring glory to the Father when we bear much fruit.

Are we glorifying God by the kind of fruits we produce?




The Fruits of the Spirit: Evidence of a Transformed Life

Now, let’s take a closer look at each fruit of the Spirit and how we can cultivate them in our daily lives:

1. Love 

Love is the foundation of our faith. It is not just an emotion but a deliberate choice to put others before ourselves. Love is sacrificial and unconditional, it reflects the very nature of God.

How to cultivate love:

  • Practice selflessness in relationships.
  • Forgive easily, just as Christ forgave us (Ephesians 4:32).
  • Serve others with a pure heart.

2. Joy 

Joy is not based on circumstances but on our relationship with God. Unlike happiness, which depends on external situations, joy is an inner gladness that remains even in trials.

How to cultivate joy:

  • Focus on God’s promises, not your problems (James 1:2-3).
  • Develop a habit of gratitude.
  • Trust that God is working everything for your good (Romans 8:28).

3. Peace 

Peace is a deep sense of calm that comes from trusting in God. It’s the assurance that, no matter what happens, He is in control.

How to cultivate peace:

  • Spend time in prayer and surrender your worries to God (Philippians 4:6-7).
  • Refuse to be anxious about things beyond your control.
  • Be a peacemaker in your relationships (Matthew 5:9).

4. Patience (Long-Suffering) 

Patience is the ability to endure trials, delays, and difficult people without frustration or anger. It reflects our trust in God's timing.

How to cultivate patience:

  • Pray for strength to wait on God’s timing.
  • Avoid reacting impulsively to difficult situations.
  • Practice grace with others, just as God is patient with us (2 Peter 3:9).

5. Kindness 

Kindness is love in action. It is being considerate, compassionate, and generous towards others, even when they don’t deserve it.

How to cultivate kindness:

  • Look for ways to serve others daily.
  • Speak words of encouragement instead of criticism.
  • Show acts of kindness even when it’s inconvenient.

6. Goodness 

Goodness is living with integrity and righteousness. A person with goodness does what is right, even when no one is watching.

How to cultivate goodness:

  • Stand firm in your faith and values.
  • Be honest in your words and actions.
  • Seek to reflect God's goodness in all areas of life.

7. Faithfulness 

Faithfulness means being reliable, loyal, and steadfast in our relationship with God and others.

How to cultivate faithfulness:

  • Be consistent in prayer and Bible study.
  • Keep your commitments, even when it’s difficult.
  • Trust in God’s faithfulness and reflect it in your own life.

8. Gentleness (Meekness) 

Gentleness is strength under control. It means responding to others with humility, patience, and grace.

How to cultivate gentleness:

  • Respond with grace, even when provoked.
  • Be humble and open to correction.
  • Handle conflicts with a spirit of peace.

9. Self-Control 

Self-control is the ability to resist temptations and make godly choices.

How to cultivate self-control:

  • Set boundaries in areas of weakness.
  • Rely on the Holy Spirit for strength (2 Timothy 1:7).
  • Be mindful of your thoughts, words, and actions.

Living a Fruitful Life

John 15:8 reminds us:
"By this, my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples."

Bearing the fruits of the Spirit is not optional—it is the evidence of a transformed life. If we claim to know God, our lives must reflect His nature. We cannot bear these fruits on our own; they come as a result of abiding in Christ.

So, I ask again: What kind of fruit are you producing? Does your life bring glory to God?

Say this prayer out loud:
"Lord, let my life be a testament to Your love and grace. Help me to bear fruit that glorifies You. Transform me daily so that I reflect Your character in all that I do. Amen."

If you would like to keep in touch or you have any questions, feel free to reach out:


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