The Overflow of Christ’s Life

By Day by Day by Grace – Bob Hoekstra
Photo Credit: Unsplash

The fruit of the Spirit is…kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
(Galatians 5:22-23 and Philippians 1:11)

When Christ is our life, His nature flows through us like a steady current, shaping the way we relate to others. The fruit of the Spirit—kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—is not a list of moral aspirations but the very expression of Christ's character working through those who abide in Him.

Kindness and goodness demonstrate His love extended toward others—both in integrity and in generosity. Faithfulness reveals His unwavering reliability, reflected in the lives of those yielded to Him. Gentleness embodies the humility and meekness of Jesus, drawing others to the peace found in Him. And self-control, often misunderstood as human restraint, is actually the Spirit's mastery over our hearts and desires, leading us into freedom.

A musician does not produce a melody by forcing the instrument to play itself. Instead, the hands of a skilled player bring forth beautiful harmonies as the instrument yields to the touch. In the same way, the life of Jesus is made visible in us as we trust Him to express Himself through us. The fruit is not our effort—it is the natural result of His life within.

The more we rest in Him, the more His character shines through us, to the glory and praise of God.

Prayer of Confidence

Father, I rejoice that the fullness of Christ dwells within me, bringing forth the fruit of His life through the Spirit. I trust You to express Your kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control in and through me today. Thank You that I do not need to strive, but simply abide, as You manifest the character of Jesus in me. May my life bring You glory as Your presence flows through every word, action, and response. Amen.