Nougat 25

Before we bite into today’s Holy Nougat I invite us to think of our favorite fruit. Savor the moment and realize that as good as our fruit in God’s Spirit

“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!” Galatians 5:22-23 NLT

For many of us, eating fruit can be a marvelous experience. Whether shared with others, or solo; a fruit under the right conditions for us … Hmmn mmm good!

Now we’re told that aside from the visible signs for the Manifestation of God’s Spirit, what God produces in us is fine, exotic, tasty fruit that invites others to ‘taste and see’. If you are wondering, the analogy comes from John 15, where we are exhorted to abide in the Vine, so we produce Good Fruit.

It’s worth noting that Jesus prunes and deadheads all non-productive parts to ensure that the vine remains healthy and productive. For; top quality fruit requires ongoing care of the vine.

We also note that while the analogy reflects a cluster of grapes; the Fruit of the Spirit is not a cluster of individual pieces. The Fruit of the Spirit is always on display in our lives, inviting others to taste and see. And the minerals are the immediate proof. When we yield to Christ’s ministration, the mature Fruit of our lives will be a melange of the minerals aforementioned. Hence; we aim to have ALL of these spiritual minerals manifested in us.

Just as overwatering, too little sunlight, or not enough fertilizer can alter the quality of the literal fruit; so it is that neglect can also affect the quality of the Fruit evident in us. It means that we have to guard our hearts and minds from aphids; caterpillars, and creepy crawlers seeking to destroy us. Hence we ensure that we have enough Son-light by spending time in and with the Word. We fertilize with our prayers and allow God’s Spirit to nurture us, and to prune as needed.

What’s the current quality of our fruit?

Are we open to God’s Spirit pruning and fertilizing our lives?

Do we have the right blend of God’s spiritual minerals evident in us?

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May all we seek be found in Christ