A practical, Biblical guide to developing the character of God in your life CONRAD L. DEFRIESE

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1 A practical, Biblical guide to developing the character of God in your life CONRAD L. DEFRIESE

2 THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT STUDY GUIDE By Conrad L. DeFriese P.O. Box 2627 LaGrange, GA

3 All Scripture references contained in this study guide are from the King James Version unless otherwise noted. Public domain. Scripture quotations marked Amplified Bible are taken from the Amplified Bible, 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation. Scripture quotations marked Living Letters by Kenneth Taylor are from Tyndale House Publishers, Living Letters by Kenneth N. Taylor, Copyright 1962 by Tyndale House Publishers, Living Gospels by Kenneth N. Taylor. Copyright 1966 by Tyndale House Publishers, Living Prophecies by Kenneth N. Taylor, Copyright 1966by Tyndale House Publishers. Scripture quotations marked Moffatt Translation are from The Bible: James Moffatt Translation, Copyright 1922, 1924, 1925, 1926, 1935 Harper Collins, San Francisco, CA, Copyright 1950, 1952, 1953, 1954, James A. R. Moffatt. Scripture quotations marked New American Standard are taken from The New American Standard Bible. Copyright 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, California. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked New International Version are from the Holy Bible, Today's New International Version TNIV, Copyright 2001, 2005 International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Scripture quotations marked Phillips Translation are taken from the J. B. Phillips, "The New Testament in Modern English", 1962 edition, published by HarperCollins. Scripture quotations marked Wuest Translation are taken from The New Testament: An Expanded Translation by Kenneth S. Wuest. Copyright Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co All rights reserved.

4 Acknowledgments It is with great appreciation that I acknowledge the contribution of my wife, Linda, and our friend, Debbie Fowler, for their many hours of work on this manual. Their suggestions and additions have contributed greatly to its completion.

5 THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 1 The Fruit of the Spirit 1 Chapter 2 The Fruit of Love 17 Chapter 3 The Fruit of Joy 40 Chapter 4 The Fruit of Peace 49 Chapter 5 The Fruit of Longsuffering 56 Chapter 6 The Fruit of Gentleness & Goodness 63 Chapter 7 The Fruit of Faith 73 Chapter 8 The Fruit of Meekness 82 Chapter 9 The Fruit of Temperance 86

6 Chapter 1 THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT The nine-fold manifestation of the fruit of the Spirit is where the character of God is cultivated and developed in the born-again spirit of every believer. Fruit of the Spirit Key Verses Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. Moffatt Translation Galatians 5:22 23 But the harvest of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, good-temper, kindliness, generosity, fidelity, gentleness, self-control: there is no law against those who practice such things. Amplified Bible Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness, 23 Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (selfrestraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge]. 1

7 THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT LOVE (agape) the God-kind of love JOY (not happiness) comes from your born-again, human spirit PEACE inward stability LONGSUFFERING patient endurance; to bear long with the provocations frailties, offences and injuries of others without murmuring or resentment GENTLENESS soft-spoken, kind, even-tempered, cultured and refined in character and conduct GOODNESS kind, generous FAITH faithfulness MEEKNESS humble, ready to obey God, teachable TEMPERANCE self-control 2

8 1. The fruit of the Spirit could be referred to as the fruit of the bornagain, human spirit. Pneuma is the word for spirit in the New Testament. The word Spirit is capitalized by the translators where they felt it applied; but, it is not capitalized in the original text. Fruit grows on branches, not on the vine. The life that is in the vine flows through the vine and into the branches where the fruit is produced. John 15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. Jesus is the Vine! Believers are the branches. The branches are where the fruit comes into manifestation. 2. Your born-again spirit is to mature and grow. Develop your inward man! 1 Peter 3:4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. Hidden man in First Peter 3:4 refers to your born-again spirit. Amplified Bible 1 Peter 3:4 But let it be the inward adorning and beauty of the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible and unfading charm of a gentle and peaceful spirit, which [is not anxious or wrought up, but] is very precious in the sight of God. 3

9 Ephesians 4:22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Amplified Bible Ephesians 4:22 Strip yourself of your former nature [put off and discard your old unrenewed self] which characterized your previous manner of life and becomes corrupt through lusts and desires that spring from delusion: 23 And be constantly renewed in the spirit of your mind [having a fresh mental and spiritual attitude). 24 And put on the new nature (the regenerate self) created in God s image, [Godlike] in true righteousness and holiness. You are a free, moral agent with the right of choice. You are in control of what you think. God wants you to choose to be spiritually-minded. Let God s Word dominate your thinking. It is up to you to choose to think in line and in agreement with what the Word of God says. Your inward man will grow as you feed and act on God s Word. 3. To be led by the Spirit: a. You must hear and obey the voice of the Lord. Receive and hearken to the instructions that come from Him. b. Develop the character of God in your born-again spirit. Purpose to allow the life and will of Jesus to flow through your life. 4

10 Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Amplified Bible Romans 8:29 For those whom He foreknew [of whom He was aware and loved beforehand], He also destined from the beginning [foreordaining them] to be molded into the image of His Son [and share inwardly His likeness], that He might become the firstborn among many brethren. 4. It is by the outward manifestation (bearing fruit) that your inward nature (character) is recognized. Matthew 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. 16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Matthew 7:20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. In these Scriptures from Matthew 7, Jesus is talking to His disciples about false prophets; but, it is important to see that that the way the world can recognize true sons of God is by their fruits. He did not say you would recognize the sons of God by how many miracles they do or how many verses they quote. He said you will recognize them by their fruits (by their character). Ministry gifts and spiritual gifts are bestowed upon you by God s grace; however, the fruit of the Spirit must be cultivated and developed in your life. 5

11 MINISTRY GIFTS Ephesians 4 Apostle Prophet Evangelist Pastor Teacher SPIRITUAL GIFTS 1 Corinthians 12 Word of Wisdom Word of Knowledge Faith Gifts of Healing Working of Miracles Prophecy Discerning of Spirit Divers Kinds of Tongues Interpretation of Tongues Operating in the gifts of the Spirit does not ensure that you will possess the character of Jesus. In the charismatic move, there may have been too much emphasis on spiritual gifts at the expense of the fruits of the Spirit. Mark 4:28 For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear. 5. Mature fruit is what enables you to live a successful, overcoming life. Do not only develop and cultivate the fruits that offer the least resistance to your personality. None of the fruits are optional. The devil will attack you where a particular fruit of the Spirit is weakest in your life. 6

12 Each fruit of the Spirit will give you what is needed to cope with adverse situations. If you only develop a few fruits of the Spirit, then, when you face situations that need the other fruits to successfully overcome, you will be lacking. Purpose and take action to cultivate all aspects of the fruit of the Spirit. You will then be fully equipped for any situation that might come your way. You cannot be a totally successful overcomer if any fruit of the Spirit is lacking or weak in your life. The enemy will concentrate his attack on the very area you are weak or lacking in. Operating in spiritual gifts given by the Lord is not a sign of spiritual maturity. Spiritual maturity is measured by the development and maturity of the fruits of the Spirit in your life. Fruit develops by diligent cultivation through obedience to God s Word. It is vital to become knowledgeable on how to cultivate each fruit individually. Though it does require time and effort, the rewards gained will far surpass the cost involved. Break up the fallow ground! Jeremiah 4:3 For thus saith the LORD to the men of Judah and Jerusalem, Break up your fallow ground, and sow not among thorns. Hosea 10:12 Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the LORD, till he come and rain righteousness upon you. 7

13 Fallow Ground uncultivated ground ground left uncultivated for a season No amount of fear or worry as to whether you can or cannot do something will produce spiritual results. Meditating and acting on the Word of God is what cultivates and develops the fruit of the Spirit. Amplified Bible 2 Peter 1:1 Simon Peter, a servant and apostle (special messenger) of Jesus Christ, to those who have received (obtained an equal privilege of) like precious faith with ourselves in and through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ: 2 May grace (God s favor) and peace, (which is perfect well-being, all necessary good, all spiritual prosperity and freedom from fears and agitating passions and moral conflicts) be multiplied to you in (the full, personal, precise and correct) knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 3 For His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that (are requisite and suited) to life and godliness, through the [full, personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue). 4 By means of these He has bestowed on us His precious and exceedingly great promises, so that through them you may escape [by flight] from the moral decay (rottenness and corruption) that is in the world because of covetousness (lust and greed), and become sharers (partakers) of the divine nature. 8

14 5 For this very reason, adding your diligence [to the divine promises], employ every effort in exercising your faith to develop virtue (excellence, resolution, Christian energy), and in [exercising] virtue [develop] knowledge (intelligence), 6 And in [exercising] knowledge [develop] self-control, and in [exercising] self-control [develop] steadfastness (patience, endurance), and in [exercising] steadfastness [develop] godliness (piety), 7 And in [exercising] godliness [develop] brotherly affection, and in [exercising] brotherly affection [develop] Christian love. 8 For as these qualities are yours and increasingly abound in you, they will keep [you] from being idle or unfruitful unto the [full personal] knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One). 9 For whoever lacks these qualities is blind, [spiritually] shortsighted, seeing only what is near to him, and has become oblivious [to the fact] that he was cleansed from his old sins. 10 Because of this, brethren, be all the more solicitous and eager to make sure (to ratify, to strengthen, to make steadfast) your calling and election; for if you do this, you will never stumble or fall. 11 Thus there will be richly and abundantly provided for you entry into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 12 So I intend always to remind you about these things, although indeed you know them and are firm in the truth that [you] now [hold]. 13 I think it right, as long as I am in this tabernacle, (tent body), to stir you up by way of remembrance. 9

15 6. Natural fruit and spiritual fruit are similar in that they both must be developed and cultivated. This requires time, effort and cost. The laws of nature and the laws of the Spirit work much the same way in that the development of fruit is a growth process. 1 Corinthians 3:9 For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building. Husbandry field under cultivation field of God s tilling God s garden and vineyard Amplified Bible 1 Corinthians 3:9 For we are fellow workmen (joint promoters, laborers together) with and for God; you are God s garden and vineyard and field under cultivation, [you are] God s building. Isaiah 61:3 To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified. 7. The kingdom of God is within you. Luke 17:21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. 10

16 God is going to grow the things of God on the inside of you. Your born-again spirit is His garden. When you sow the seed of His Word in your heart, it grows and produces the fruit of the Spirit. 8. You are free in Christ to obey Him, but not to do just anything you want to. 1 Corinthians 10:23 All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not. Expedient able to be done without harm to others helpful to others Some actions may not be sinful to you; however, if they harm others, you should not do them. Galatians 5:13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. Do not use your liberty in Christ to serve selfish desires. Use it in love to serve others. 1 Corinthians 12:25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. No schism in First Corinthians 12:25 means no lack of adaptation. The body of Christ has many members. Those 11

17 members have different functions and callings; however, they should adapt to one another and work together for the good of all. 9. God is building His church. Matthew 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Build in Matthew 16:18 indicates that a process of growth and development must take place. You are in a growing and developing process. The cultivation of the fruit of the Spirit is part of maturing and developing. 1 Peter 2:5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. Trees must reach a certain maturity before they bear fruit. Hebrews 5:12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. Christians that do not continue to feed and act on God s Word will still be baby Christians when they should be grown-up and able to help others. 1 Peter 2:2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby. 12

18 Ephesians 4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ. The body of Christ, the church, is growing collectively to become the mature manifestation of Christ on the earth. 1 Corinthians 12:27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. Amplified Bible 1 Corinthians. 12:27 Now you [collectively] are Christ s body and [individual]) you are members of it, each part severally and distinct [each with his own place and function]. 10. Sons (children) of God should grow to become mature sons (children) of God. John 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: 13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. Sons (Greek word, teknon) in John 1:12 emphasizes the fact of birth rather than dignity and character. Romans 8:19 For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. 13

19 Sons (Greek word, huios) in Romans 8:19 emphasizes the relationship of an offspring to its parents, especially the expression of the character and nature of that parent. It is not those who have simply been born again who will be recognized as sons of God. It is those who demonstrate the very nature and character of their heavenly Father. Unfortunately, many born-again, Spirit-filled people are content with just belonging to the family of God and have not yet developed the maturity of character that would enable the world to recognize Christ in them. God is pleased with people that get born again and become part of His family. He does, however, want all His children to develop and mature in His nature and character so the world can recognize that they are born again. Being led by the Spirit is an identifiable trait of mature sons of God. Romans 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. Wuest Translation Romans 8:14 For as many as are being constantly led by God s Spirit, these are sons of God. 14

20 GODLY CHARACTER TRAITS Pure Upright Honest Godly Steadfast Credible Trustworthy Integrity Honorable Responsible Above Reproach Not offensive Faithful in little Respectful of others Stable Faithful Tactful Constant Blameless Excellent Virtuous Punctual Consistent Reliable Conscientious Not offended Person of their word In control of self UNGODLY CHARACTER TRAITS Touchy Sulky Stubborn Ungovernable Uncooperative Unbelieving Selfish Headstrong Inflexible Narrow-minded Unyielding Unforgiving 15

21 WHAT HELPS BUILD GODLY CHARACTER? Praying Studying the Word of God Obeying the Word of God Using time wisely Taking care of your health Being organized Being broadminded Being calm Being generous Being unbigoted Being ready for opportunities Being a good steward of time Being a good steward of finances Being a good steward of whatever God has given you Declaration I have the God-kind of love in me. I choose to let this love dominate my thinking, attitude and conduct. I walk in love. 16

22 Chapter 2 THE FRUIT OF LOVE At the time of the new birth (receiving Jesus as Savior), the Godkind of love becomes a permanent part of your heart. God s love nature indwells you. When cultivated, yielded to and developed, the love nature will protect, guide and strengthen you in your Christian walk and service to the Lord Jesus Christ. Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. 1. There are several different words in the Greek language for love. We will consider four of them Eros, Storge, Phileo and Agape. a. Eros sexual love; physical love; married love; mutual desire between a man and a woman. This kind of love is found in Song of Solomon. b. Storge a momentary sense of affection; senses the sweetness or innocence in someone; a spark; family love The closest to storge in the New Testament is where Paul describes a yearning he had for the churches. Many Christians, when they think of love, are usually thinking of the storge or phileo kind of love. 17

23 c. Phileo friendship love; based on compatibility of likes and dislikes Each one of these kinds of love Eros, Storge, Phileo is dependent upon the person being loved and not so much on the one doing the loving. The person doing the loving is responding to the action, physical appearance or psychological make-up of the person they are loving. d. Agape God's kind of love. This love comes out of and is based on the one doing the loving and is not based on the action, appearance or other attributes of the one being loved. 2. Human Love a. It is dependent on beauty or goodness in its object. b. It rests on a sense of need. c. It feels poor and empty of itself and requires an object to enrich its life. d. It is dependent on the value of its object. e. It goes in search of God. 3. Agape Love a. It is not awakened by beauty or goodness in its object. b. It stands alone and is independent. c. It is wealthy of itself. It feels no need. d. It is not dependent on the value of its object. It creates value in its object. e. It is God seeking after man, not man seeking after God. 18

24 IMMATURE LOVE COMPARED TO MATURE LOVE IMMATURE LOVE Is egotistical Is selfish Is impatient Tries to dominate Demands of others Disciplines others Wants things immediately Focuses on wrongdoings of others MATURE LOVE Is humble Is willing to sacrifice Is patient Sets free Gives unconditionally Disciplines self Waits patiently Forgives and overcomes evil with good 4. Love is the fruit of your born-again spirit. Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. Since love is a fruit, it can grow and develop. Moffatt Translation Galatians 5:22 23 But the harvest of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, good-tempered, kindliness, generosity, fidelity, gentleness, self-control: there is no law against those who practice such things. Spirit in Galatians 5:22 refers to the human spirit and could be referring to your born-again spirit. 19

25 Amplified Bible Galatians 5:23 against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge]. If you are walking in love, no charge can be brought against you. John 15:4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. 5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. It is up to you to do something to cause love to mature. Feed the love of God in your heart on God s Word. Exercise it and it will grow. Love is a fruit and fruit grows. It does not reach full maturity overnight. You received the love of God in your heart when you were born again (Romans 5:5). You do not need to pray for love because it is already in your heart. You do, however, need to feed and act on God s Word so the fruit of love will grow and increase in your life. 5. Walking in love is the main commandment of the New Testament. John 13:34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. John 15:12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. 20

26 6. The new commandment of love in the New Covenant is the fulfilling of the law under the Old Covenant. Ezekiel 36:25 Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. 26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. 27 And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. Jeremiah 31:33 But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the Lord, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people. 34 And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them; saith the Lord: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more. Hebrews 8:8 For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah: 9 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord. 21

27 10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people. 7. In the Old Testament, God wrote His laws on tablets of stone (Exodus 24:12). In the New Testament, God writes His laws in your heart. Romans 5:5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. Romans 13:8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. Galatians 5:14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 8. God has given to every born-again person a measure of the same kind of love that He has. To walk in the God-kind of love is to walk in the same kind of love that God has. 22

28 Ephesians 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. You are to forgive others the same as God has forgiven you. The only way you can do this is with the same kind of love. 9. Walking in love gives you assurance that you are born again. 1 John 3:14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. 1 John 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. God is love. You are born of God; therefore, you are born of love. You are a new creation in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:17). Your spirit man is made new and has the love nature. The God-kind of love has been shed abroad in your heart by the Holy Spirit. Acts 17:29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device. God has faith and power; but, HE IS LOVE! You are His offspring. Your new spirit has His love nature in it. 23

29 10. Love will cause your faith to be effective. Galatians 5:6 For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. Amplified Bible Galatians 5:6 For [if we are] in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith activated and energized and expressed and working through love. Walking in love is necessary for faith to work properly. 11. Love keeps the wicked one from touching you. 1 John 5:18 We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not. It is your responsibility to keep yourself in the love of God. 12. Walking in love gives you assurance of salvation. 1 John 3:14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. Amplified Bible 1 John 3:14 We know that we have passed over out of death into Life by the fact that we love the brethren (our fellow Christians). He who does not love abides (remains, is held and kept continually) in [spiritual] death. 24

30 The way you can know for sure you are born again is that you walk in love. The God-kind of love comes into your bornagain spirit at the time of the new birth. People who are not born again do not have the God-kind of love in their heart. They only have the human-kind of love. 13. You are more than a conqueror through Christ Jesus. Romans 8:37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. God is love. Walking in love means you are walking in Him! This is the way to walk in victory! 14. Mature love casts out fear. 1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. Perfect mature Cultivate and develop the love of God in your life. As love matures and grows, it will cause fear to leave. 15. Love will never fade away or come to an end. 1 Corinthians 13:8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 25

31 Amplified Bible 1 Corinthians 13:8 Love never fails [never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end]. As for prophecy (the gift of interpreting the divine will and purpose), it will be fulfilled and pass away; as for tongues, they will be destroyed and cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away [it will lose its value and be superseded by truth]. 16. Love covers a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. Cover in First Peter 4:8 means to forgive and disregard the offenses of others. 17. Walking in love surpasses knowledge. Ephesians 3:17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; 19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Amplified Bible Ephesians 3:17 May Christ through your faith [actually] dwell (settle down, abide, make His permanent home) in your hearts! May you be rooted deep in love and founded securely on love. 18 That you may have the power and be strong to apprehend and grasp with all the saints [God s devoted people, the experience of that love] what is the breadth and length and height and depth [of it]; 26

32 19 [That you may really come] to know [practically, through experience for yourselves] the love of Christ, which far surpasses mere knowledge [without experience]; that you may be filled [through all your being] unto all the fullness of God [may have the richest measure of the divine Presence, and become a body wholly filled and flooded with God Himself]! 18. Love is part of your breastplate. 1 Thessalonians 5:8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. 19. Love prevents stumbling. 1 John 2:10 He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him. Amplified Bible 1 John 2:10 Whoever loves his brother [believer] abides (lives) in the Light, and in it or in him there is no occasion for stumbling or cause for error or sin. 20. Love is a badge of discipleship. John 13:35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. Love is the true sign of a Christian. It is not singing, quoting Scriptures, shouting and other such things that shows others you are a true believer. Walking in love is the evidence of being a Christian. God is love. His very nature is love and His nature is in you. 27

33 21. Love is the bond of perfection. Colossians 3:14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. Bond of Perfectness binding together and completing of the whole binding of everything together in perfect harmony the girdle that makes all complete 22. Love will constrain you. 2 Corinthians 5:14 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead. Constrain in Second Corinthians 5:14 means keep in, urge, control, impel and hold. The love of God urges you to do the will of God and to hold on to it. 23. Make a decision to walk in love. Ephesians 5:1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; 2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour. Followers are imitators. God is love. His children should imitate Him. Walk in the love of God. 28

34 24. Keep yourselves in the love of God. Jude 1:21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. It is your responsibility to make the decision to walk in love. Living Letters by Kenneth Taylor Jude 1:21 Stay always within the boundaries where the love of God can reach and bless you. 25. Confess you are what First Corinthians 13, verses 4 through 8, says you are. 1 Corinthians 13:4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; 6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; 7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. 8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. Amplified Bible 1 Corinthians 13:4 Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy; is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily. 29

35 5 It is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride); it is not rude (unmannerly), and does not act unbecomingly. Love (God s love in us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way, for it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no account of the evil done to it [pays no attention to a suffered wrong]. 6 It does not rejoice at injustice and unrighteousness, but rejoices when right and truth prevail. 7 Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes are fadeless under all circumstances and it endures everything [without weakening]. 8 Love never fails [never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end]. As for prophecy (the gift of interpreting the divine will and purpose), it will be fulfilled and pass away; as for tongues, they will be destroyed and cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away [it will lose its value and be superseded by truth]. 26. Love grows and matures in your life when you are obedient to the Word of God. 1 John 2:5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. 1 John 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. John 15:10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. 30

36 John 14:21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. 1 John 2:3 And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. Phillips Translation 1 John 2:3 It is only when we obey God s law that we can be quite sure that we really know him. 27. By love serve one another. Galatians 5:13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. 28. Make walking in love your great aim. 1 Corinthians 14:1 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. Amplified Bible 1 Corinthians 14:1 Eagerly pursue and seek to acquire [this] love [make it your aim, your great quest]; and earnestly desire and cultivate the spiritual endowments (gifts), especially that you may prophesy (interpret the divine will and purpose in inspired preaching and teaching). 31

37 29. Love is greater than prophecy, tongues and knowledge. 1 Corinthians 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. 30. Walking in the Spirit is walking in love. Galatians 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. Walking in the Spirit is walking in the fruit of the Spirit. The Spirit of God will always lead you to walk in love. Fruit does not suddenly appear fully mature. It starts as a bud, draws life from the vine and grows to maturity. Confessing God s Word about love and acting on it causes love to grow in your life. 31. Love your enemies. Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 32

38 45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? 47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? 48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. 32. Because of love, God brought you redemption. John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 33

39 TRAITS OF FORGIVENESS Remit Excuse Forbear Unresentful Overlooking Show mercy Set free Pass over Make allowances Give absolution Grant remission Grant amnesty to Remove from the record Does not bring it up again Patience Pardon Release Kindness Disregard Longsuffering Destigmatize Blot out Not revengeful Let it go Cease to blame Clear from guilt Wipe the slate clean Squash the charges of indictment 34

40 WHAT NOT WALKING IN LOVE LOOKS LIKE Strife Debate Struggle Scrapping Lying Stealing Bickering Wrangling Squabbling Controversy Cut with words Conflict Quarrel Dispute Murder Contention Enmity Vendetta Argument Adultery Sharp words War of words Competition Rivalry Emulation Run for One s Money Discord Friction Strained Relations Discordance Non-cooperative 35

41 Disagreement Variance Division Faction Unforgiveness Unyielding Without Mercy Flinty Hard Harsh Cruel 33. Walking in love is walking in forgiveness. Ephesians 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. Colossians 3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 34. Walking in forgiveness is necessary for faith to be effective. Mark 11:24 Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. 25 And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. 36

42 35. When should you forgive? You should forgive instantly! The longer you hold resentment, grudges and hurts, the more opportunity the root of bitterness has to get a hold of you. Matthew 18:21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? 22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. Hebrews 12:14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: 15 Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled. Walk in a continuing, unending attitude of forgiveness toward those that have wronged you. You cannot justify an unforgiving spirit no matter what good reason you think you have. 36. The love of God will show mercy to others. Matthew 5:7 Blessed are the merciful; for they shall obtain mercy. Matthew 7:1 Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. 3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? 37

43 An unforgiving spirit holds you in bondage and robs you of the peace and victory that is rightfully yours. The only person that can keep you in bondage to an unforgiving spirit is yourself! An unforgiving spirit cannot remain in your heart without your consent. Walking in forgiveness releases your faith to receive forgiveness when you need it. 37. Reasons Why Some People Find it Hard to Forgive Others: a. Pride b. Selfishness (wanting your own way) c. Sometimes what you lose can never be repaid d. Lack of understanding that unforgiveness is the problem e. You enjoy the self-pity others give you when they see your loss. f. Forgiving is not easy. 38. Steps to Take to Forgive Others: a. Confess your sin of unforgiveness to God and ask Him to forgive you. (1 John 1:9) b. Forgive the person that did you wrong and release them. Wipe the slate clean. c. If possible, make things right and be reconciled to the other person. d. Pray for the other person and desire for them to receive God s blessing in their life. e. Depend upon the Lord to be your strength and supply. 38

44 39. Additional Points to Remember Concerning Forgiveness: a. Every hurt, unless treated properly, will develop into an unforgiving spirit. b. Do not ignore or bury hurts. Get rid of them. Hurts not dealt with will try to come out somewhere sometime. c. Acknowledging and dealing with an unforgiving spirit may be more painful than the hurt with which the unforgiveness is connected. d. Choose as an act of your will to forgive and be forgiven. e. Release the emotional resentment, anger, hurt and animosity that accompanies an attitude of unforgiveness. God is love. Make the choice to walk in the God-kind of love. Choosing to walk in this love puts you in close fellowship and communion with God because He is love. Practicing this love will protect your heart and mind from attacks of the enemy. It will cause the light of God s wisdom to shine upon your path and keep you from stumbling. Walking in this unconditional love is God s way to victory. Declaration I am God s offspring and His love nature is in me. I feed and act on God s Word so the fruit of love will grow and increase in my life. I forgive others the same as God has forgiven me. 39

45 Chapter 3 THE FRUIT OF JOY God has given believers the fruit of joy to give them strength in times of tests and trials. Joy is not something you receive when the test is over. Joy is what God gives you to strengthen you while you are facing the attack of the enemy. Learn to cultivate, develop and exercise the fruit of joy, especially during times of testing. Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith. 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. 1. The seed of joy is planted in your spirit at the time of the new birth. It must be cultivated and developed. Jesus and the Holy Spirit are not the fruit-bearers. You are the branch and you bear fruit enabled by the Holy Spirit. John 15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches. He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit, for without me ye can do nothing. The main attribute of joy is strength and power to overcome. Joy is a must for the overcomer! Nehemiah 8:10 For the joy of the Lord is your strength. 40

46 2. There is a difference between happiness and joy. Happiness is dependent on circumstances. Joy is independent of circumstances. Its source of strength is God and His Word. 3. The absence of joy in your life results in: a. Serving the enemy b. Wanting all things c. Saving the yoke of iron placed on their neck Deuteronomy 28:47 Because thou servedst not the Lord thy God with joyfulness, and with gladness of heart for the abundance of all things. 48 Therefore shalt thou serve thine enemies which the Lord shall send against thee, in hunger, and in thirst, and in nakedness, and in want of all things: and he shall put a yoke of iron upon thy neck, until he has destroyed thee. Blessings that accompany those who serve the Lord with joy and gladness: a. They overcome the enemy. b. They experience fulfillment in all things. c. They are free of the yoke of bondage. produces victory provides fulfillment protects against oppression 41

47 4. You become a servant to what overcomes you. 2 Peter 2:19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. Your character and disposition may or may not change during times of testing. If your character and disposition changes during such times, then, to some degree you have become a servant of the enemy. Unchanged character and disposition is characteristic of a successful overcomer during trials and tests! 5. Cultivate joy during times of trials and tests. 1 Peter 4:12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you as though some strange thing happened unto you: 13 But, rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings: That when, his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. James 1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations: 3 Knowing this that the trying of your faith worketh patience. 4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. Amplified Bible James 1:2 Consider it wholly joyful, my brethren, whenever you are enveloped in or encounter trials of any sort or fall into various temptations. 42

48 3 Be assured and understand that the trial and proving of your faith bring out endurance and steadfastness and patience. 4 But let endurance and steadfastness and patience have full play and do a thorough work, so that you may be [people] perfectly and fully developed [with no defects], lacking in nothing. Joy is involved in the production of all things needed for abundant living. In the book of James, there are three promises to you when you endure trials with joy. You will be perfect (mature). You will be entire. You will lack nothing. The enemy sends tests and trials to steal something of value from you. God has given you His solution JOY to bring you into victory. Joy does not come because you are enduring tests and trials. Joy comes because of the growth of your faith and patience as you attend to God s Word. 6. If the devil steals your joy, he steals your access to the benefits of salvation. Isaiah 12:3 Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation. 7. Joy comes by the Word just as faith does. John 15:11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you and that your joy might be full. 1 John 1:4 And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. 43

49 Psalms 19:8 The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart. Proverbs 17:22 A merry heart does good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. Amplified Bible Proverbs 17:22 A happy heart is a good medicine and a cheerful mind works healing, but a broken spirit dries the bones. Cultivate and develop the fruit of joy. Staying joyful when you have a problem is like taking medicine when you are sick. Joy supplies you with strength to overcome the problem. You have joy when what you say agrees with God s Word. Joy comes out of your born-again Spirit. Speaking God s Word causes joy to grow and increase. 8. Make a decision to rejoice in the Lord regardless of your present circumstances. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. You do not need to be thankful for bad things that come your way. Regardless of what circumstances you are in, you can be thankful to God because He is with you and will bring you out of whatever you are going through. In the book of Philippians, we read where Paul, while he was imprisoned, wrote at least 19 times in 4 chapters about joy, rejoice, etc. The joy he wrote about had nothing to do with circumstances and everything to do with trust in God. 44

50 Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, rejoice. 9. Paul was determined to have JOY to finish what God called him to do. Acts 20:24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy and the ministry which I have received at the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. Colossians 1:11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness. 10. Acting on God s Word brings joy. John 13:17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them. 11. There is fullness of joy in God s presence. Psalms 16:11 Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures forevermore. 12. Let your mouth be filled with laughter. Psalms 126:1 When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream. 2 Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them. 45

51 Additional Scriptures on JOY Psalms 5:11 But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee. Psalms 21:1 The king shall joy in thy strength, O LORD; and in thy salvation how greatly shall he rejoice! Psalms 27:6 And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD. Psalms 32:11 Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart. Psalms 51:12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. Romans 15:13 Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. 2 Corinthians 8:2 How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. 46

52 Philippians 1:4 Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy. Philippians 1:25 And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith. Philippians 2:2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Philippians 2:17 Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all. Philippians 4:1 Therefore, my brethren, dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. 1 Thessalonians 1:6 And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost. 1 Thessalonians 2:19 For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? Hebrews 12:2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. 1 Peter 1:8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. 47

53 1 Peter 4:13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. Declaration I exercise the fruit of joy and receive divine strength during times of tests and trials. 48

54 Chapter 4 THE FRUIT OF PEACE Peace is a fruit that must be cultivated and developed. The fruit of peace is the very peace of Christ Jesus, who is the Vine. His peace flows into and through believers, who are the branches. Receiving and yielding to the peace that comes from Jesus will enable you to avoid many pitfalls and snares of the enemy. Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. Amplified Bible Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness, 23 Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (selfrestraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge]. Peace is inward stability, calm, restful and free from anxiety or agitation. It is not a feeling. 49

55 1. Jesus has given His peace to every believer. John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Amplified Bible John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; My [own] peace I now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. [Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.] You must make a conscious decision to stay in peace! The peace of God is in your heart; however, it is up to you to not allow thoughts and circumstances to influence you to the point where you lose your peace. 2. You live in a world that is experiencing the birth pangs that will produce the great tribulation. Matthew 24:6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. Matthew 24:8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. Purpose to live in the peace that Christ has given you in spite of trouble. The Word of God tells you that the world will have turmoil and trouble. Remember, God s Word has promised you peace in the midst of the storm. 50

56 3. Prayer is one way to cultivate peace. Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Amplified Bible Philippians 4:6 Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. 7 And God s peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Go to God in prayer and put your trust in Him to meet your needs. Trusting in Him will bring peace! Trusting in yourself or someone else will bring anxiety and frustration. 4. A specific function of peace is to determine direction in your life. Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Rule (Greek) act as an umpire arbitrate decide 51

57 Amplified Bible Colossians 3:15 And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ s] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always]. It is your responsibility to see to it that peace rules in your heart. Whether you have peace or lack peace can serve as a guidance system to let you know if you are going in the right direction. Let the peace of God rule in your heart. Avoid doing things and making decisions that do not allow the peace of God to rule in your heart. Let the peace of God be a deciding factor in your life in making decisions. Many Christians are like Martha. They are troubled and find themselves busy serving Jesus and neglecting the very most important thing of sitting at His feet to receive His Word and peace. Luke 10:38 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus feet, and heard his word. 40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. 52

58 41 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: 42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. 5. Be a peacemaker. Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Hebrews 12:14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. Matthew 5:38 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: 39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40 And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also. 41 And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. 42 Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away. 43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. 44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. 53

59 Romans 12:19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. 20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. 21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. 6. Pray that people may lead a quiet and peaceable life. God desires that you live in a state of peace and security. 1 Timothy 2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 7. Obeying God s Word produces peace. He works with His Word. He is the great Peacemaker. John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 15:4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. 5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. 54

60 Peace only comes when you no longer resist the will of God. 8. You may hear, receive and learn the Word; but, peace only comes when you become a doer of the Word. Isaiah 26:3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Philippians 4:9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. John 14:21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. Isaiah 48:17 Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go. 18 O that thou hadst hearkened to my commandments! then had thy peace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea: Proverbs 3:1 My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: 2 For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee. Declaration The peace of God guards my mind like a garrison. 55

61 Chapter 5 THE FRUIT OF LONGSUFFERING Cultivating and developing the fruit of longsuffering will enable you to deal with the weaknesses, faults and immaturities of others without it affecting your Christian walk, attitude and conduct. Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. Longsuffering is to have patient endurance. It is to bear long with the frailties, offences, injuries and provocations of others without murmuring or resentment. 1. Longsuffering produces endurance. Endurance is the capacity to remain firm under suffering without giving in to anger, resentment or self-pity. Hebrews 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us. 56

62 Amplified Bible Hebrews 12:1 Therefore then, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who have borne testimony to the Truth], let us strip off and throw aside every encumbrance (unnecessary weight) and that sin which so readily (deftly and cleverly) clings to and entangles us, and let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence the appointed course of the race that is set before us. It is the long, grueling race, not the short sprint, which requires and demands endurance. 2. Becoming developed in the fruit of longsuffering will cause you to remain strong and firm. You will not weaken or yield to adverse circumstances when you are longsuffering. Galatians 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. Jeremiah 12:5 If thou hast run with the footmen, and they have wearied thee, then how canst thou contend with horses? and if in the land of peace, wherein thou trustedst, they wearied thee, then how wilt thou do in the swelling of Jordan? 3. Run your race with patient endurance. Luke 21:19 In your patience possess ye your souls. Amplified Bible Luke 21:19 By your steadfastness and patient endurance you shall win the true life of your souls. Soul mind will emotions 57

63 God has put you in charge of your mind, will and emotions. Living by feelings and emotions will cause you to quit before you finish. Purpose to yield to the fruit of longsuffering, not to your flesh. 4. Longsuffering promotes unity among believers. When fault meets no patience, it results in unforgiveness, bitterness, and strife. Colossians 3:12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. Amplified Bible Colossians 3:12 Clothe yourselves therefore, as God s own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper]. 13 Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference (a grievance or complaint) against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has [freely] forgiven you, so must you also [forgive]. 58

64 James 5:8 Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. 9 Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door. Grudge murmur complain Amplified Bible James 5:8 So you also must be patient. Establish your hearts [strengthen and confirm them in the final certainty], for the coming of the Lord is very near. 9 Do not complain, brethren, against one another, so that you [yourselves] may not be judged. Look! The Judge is [already] standing at the very door. Galatians 5:15 But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another. Overcomers forgive those that disagree and quarrel with them, even when they were right and the other person was wrong. 5. Longsuffering enables believers to obtain the promises of God s Word. Hebrews 6:12 That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. 13 For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, 59

65 14 Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee. 15 And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise. Hebrews 10:36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. Luke 8:15 But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience. That in Luke 8:15 means the seed that is in good soil. 6. Longsuffering is necessary if the seed is to abide in your heart long enough to grow to maturity and produce fruit. Mark 4:16 And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness; 17 And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended. Many times, believers hear the truth which they are so desirous of and they intend to act on it; however, because of a lack of patient endurance, they fail to receive the promises. Cultivating longsuffering will enable you to keep the Word and receive its promises! 60

66 Matthew 7:24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: 25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. 26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: 27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. Most Christians do not suffer defeat because they have not heard the Word. It is because they have not held fast to the Word and endured until it produced the promise! Developing and increasing in longsuffering will enable you to move into higher spiritual levels because you will hold fast to God s Word more. There is a price for you to pay if you are to retain and obey the Word of God. 7. Look at the tests and trials as something that will cause your patience to grow. Romans 5:3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience. Amplified Bible Romans 5:3 Moreover [let us also be full of joy now!] let us exult and triumph in our troubles and rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that pressure and affliction and hardship produce patient and unswerving endurance. 61

67 James 1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. As you trust God and obey His Word during tests and trials, your patience will develop and increase. It is you putting your faith and trust in His Word during tests and trials that causes you to grow spiritually! The test by itself is from the enemy to try to defeat you. You count it joy when you are in a test when you recognize that it is developing patience in your life. Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Declaration I bear long and am kind concerning the frailties and weaknesses of others without becoming agitated and provoked. 62

68 Chapter 6 THE FRUIT OF GENTLENESS AND GOODNESS Having a kind, forgiving attitude toward others will prompt you to do good works for them and give good things to them. Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. New American Standard Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 Gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Amplified Bible Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness, 23 Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge]. Gentleness is kindness and a kindly disposition toward someone else. 63

69 Goodness is a kind action on someone else s behalf, an act of benevolence. Without a kind disposition toward others, there will be no acts of goodness toward them. That is why the fruits of gentleness and goodness are considered together. 1. A kindly disposition is necessary to manifest the good works of forgiveness. Ephesians 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. 2. Salt and light are types of kindness and goodness. a. Salt is a type of the fruit of kindness. b. Light is a type of the fruit of goodness. Matthew 5:13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. 14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. 15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. 64

70 Your kindness (salt) brings savor (seasoning) to the earth. When your kindness is savory towards another, your light automatically shines through the manifestation of your good works. A mother's kind, tender heart toward her children causes acts of goodness to flow. 3. The degree of gentleness or kindness that you have determines the degree of usefulness you are to God. A Christian who loses gentleness loses usefulness to God. Philippians 2:14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings: 15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world. 4. Gentleness (kindness) helps prepare a person s heart (soil) to receive the seed of the Word of God. Titus 3:3 For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. 4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, 5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. 65

71 Kindness (salt) to have a purifying quality Kindness is like fertilizer that prepares the soil to receive the implantation of the seed of God s Word. 5. Kindness is not a respecter of persons. James 2:9 But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. To show respect of persons to whom you show kindness is to commit sin. Mark 9:50 Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another. 6. Gentleness and kindness is like an antiseptic mouthwash that cleanses the mouth. Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. Colossians 4:6 Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. 66

72 7. Many problems are avoided when you have a kind tongue. Proverbs 18:8 The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly. Talebearer one who speaks whisperings and is unkind in words Proverbs 18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. Proverbs 16:24 Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones. Proverbs 26:20 Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. 8. Your born-again spirit already has kindness in it. Matthew 5:15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Bushel in Matthew 5:15 represents anything that comes against you to distort your disposition and to hinder kindness, which inevitably hinders goodness. Guard against bushels! Your light can be quenched by a distorted disposition, which is your character, nature and temperament. Yield to your new nature of love. 67

73 9. A major cause of distortion in your disposition is offense. Offense is to: annoy provoke give displeasure wrong someone be disagreeable assault or attack injure the feelings of have a harsh or unkind attitude Proverbs 18:19 A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle. Matthew 24:10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. You must avoid pointing to the real or imagined faults of others. You are having a problem yourself if your disposition changes when you encounter the faults of others. 10. Overcome offense by being a doer of the Word. John 16:1 These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. Psalms 119:165 Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them. Believers who are shallow in God s Word sometimes get offended. 68

74 Mark 4:16 And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness; 17 And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended. Walking in love will help you overcome offenses. 1 Corinthians 13:4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; 6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; 7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. 8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. Amplified Bible 1 Corinthians 13:4 Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy, is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily. 5 It is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride); it is not rude (unmannerly) and does not act unbecomingly. Love (God s love in us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way, for it is not self-seeking; it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no account of the evil done to it [it pays no attention to a suffered wrong]. 6 It does not rejoice at injustice and unrighteousness, but rejoices when right and truth prevail. 69

75 7 Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes are fadeless under all circumstances, and it endures everything [without weakening]. 8 Love never fails [never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end]. As for prophecy (the gift of interpreting the divine will and purpose), it will be fulfilled and pass away; as for tongues, they will be destroyed and cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away [it will lose its value and be superseded by truth]. 11. Praying in the Spirit strengthens you in your walk of faith and love. Jude 1:20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, 21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. 12. Ministering to offensive people will help you overcome the temptation to be offended. Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you. Romans 12:19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. 20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. 21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. 70

76 Love will be perfected (matured) as you minister to those who have the greatest power to offend you. Believers who dwell on themselves tend to get offended easily. It is human tendency to point blame at others when you get offended. If you are offended, God wants you to examine yourself to see if you need to be more grounded in the Word and operating in love. If you have allowed someone s offensive actions or words to cause you to be offended or hurt, it is your responsibility to get over the hurt of being offended. Do not wait or depend on the other person to come and apologize to you before you get over your hurt feelings. Go to God s Word. Act on it. Let Him be your strength and supply. 13. Timidity toward others will hinder kindness and goodness from being manifested toward them. 2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Amplified Bible 2 Timothy 1:7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear) but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control. To increase your confidence: a. Study the Word of God. b. Act on the Word and believe it is true. c. Spend time in prayer. d. Spend time in the presence of God. 71

77 e. Take time to pray in the Spirit. f. Be an example of walking in love. Acts 4:13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. Jesus was always kind to people and doing acts of goodness on their behalf. The more you spend time in His Word and in His presence, the more His ways and strength will flow through you. Declaration I have a kind, forgiving heart toward others and enjoy doing good things for them. 72

78 Chapter 7 THE FRUIT OF FAITH The fruit of faith is the fruit of faithfulness. Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. To be FAITHFUL is to be: loyal sure true reliable committed steadfast obedient unwavering dependable trustworthy constant (enduring and unchanging) Cultivating and developing faithfulness will position you to receive the many benefits and blessings that God has already promised belong to you. 73

79 New International Version Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 Gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 1. Bible faith is different from the fruit of the Spirit of faithfulness. a. The faith that saves is a gift from God. Ephesians 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. b. Faith is a gift of the Spirit. 1 Corinthians 12:9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit. c. The measure of faith is received at the time of the new birth. Romans 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. 74

80 d. The faith in Jude 1:3 refers to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Jude 1:3 Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. 2. A faithful person is worthy of belief and possesses qualities to justify the fullest confidence and dependence and is worthy of belief. Faithfulness is the character of one who is trustworthy in the performance of duties, especially in the fulfillment of vows, promises, obligations, responsibilities and the like. A faithful person keeps his/her word or agreement. 3. God is faithful. Hebrews 10:23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised). Romans 3:3 For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? Amplified Bible Romans 3:3 What if some did not believe and were without faith? Does their lack of faith and their faithlessness nullify and make ineffective and void the faithfulness of God and His fidelity [to His Word]? 1 Corinthians 1:9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. 75

81 Hebrews 2:17 Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. 1 Thessalonians 5:24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it. Revelation 3:14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God. 4. You have received the new nature of Christ into your spirit. The nature of Jesus Christ is to be faithful. Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. 2 Peter 1:4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 1 Corinthians 7:25 Now concerning virgins I have no commandment of the Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful. 76

82 5. Moses was faithful. Hebrews 3:1 Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; 2 Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house. 6. Stewards must be faithful. 1 Corinthians 4:2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. 7. Faithful people are hard to find. Proverbs 20:6 Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find? 8. A faithful servant can be given more responsibility. Matthew 25:21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. Luke 16:10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. 9. A faithful person does not tell things that should not be told. Proverbs 11:13 A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter. 77

83 10. A faithful ambassador is health. Proverbs 13:17 A wicked messenger falleth into mischief: but a faithful ambassador is health. 11. The faithful are blessed. Proverbs 28:20 A faithful man shall abound with blessings: but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent. 12. Abraham was faithful. Galatians 3:9 So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham. 13. God looks for those He can trust to be faithful to carry the Gospel. 2 Timothy 2:2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Psalms 101:6 Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect way, he shall serve me. 14. Obeying (being faithful to) the truth purifies your soul. 1 Peter 1:22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently. 78

84 15. Adam s unfaithfulness caused him to be driven out of what God had given him to rule over and enjoy. Developing faithfulness will give you the privilege of ruling over the things God has given you in Christ Jesus. It is only the faithful who are entrusted with continuous rulership over His choicest goods. Matthew 24:45 Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? 46 Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. 47 Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods. 16. The Parable of the Talents and the Faithful Servants Matthew 25:14-30 tells the parable of how the kingdom of heaven is compared to a man who, before he went on a journey, entrusted his servants with talents. The servants with ten, five and two talents invested and doubled them. The man said, Well done, thou good and faithful servant. To the servant with one talent who did nothing with it, he said: Matthew 25:28 Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. 29 For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. He who has been faithful will receive more. He who has been unfaithful will lose even what he has. 79

85 Hebrews 12:12 Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; 13 And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. Hebrews 12:16 Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright. Esau lost his birthright (family inheritance) because it was not in his heart to be faithful to God. 17. Faithfulness enables you to have fellowship with the Father. Numbers 12:7 My servant Moses is not so, who is faithful in all mine house. 8 With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude of the LORD shall he behold: wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant Moses? To hear God s voice clearly, you must be faithful. God watches to see if believers are obedient in certain things that He speaks to them before He entrusts them with greater things. He looks for faithfulness and obedience! 18. Learning to be faithful to what God says to do is more important than what we do. Habakkuk 2:4 Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith. 80

86 Moffatt Translation Habakkuk 2:4 the good man lasts and lives as he is faithful. Many Christians are asking God for more gifts, but have not yet been faithful over what He has already given them. 19. You must be faithful with your family. Genesis 18:19 For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him. 20. You must be faithful where you live, where you work, where you go to church, etc. before God will open more doors for you. Luke 16:11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? 12 And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own? 13 No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Declaration I am reliable and trustworthy. God can depend on me to be faithful in what He has called me to do. 81

87 Chapter 8 THE FRUIT OF MEEKNESS Cultivating the fruit of meekness will enable you to stay humble and teachable so God can continue to use you. It also keeps you from being offended when people do not receive what He is doing through you. Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. Meekness is to be humble in spirit and teachable. 1. Meekness is self-controlled and slow to give or take offense. 1 Peter 2:19 For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. 20 For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. In Numbers 12:1 13, Moses did not defend himself, but was quick to come to the defense of Miriam and Aaron, even though their complaints about his Ethiopian wife was against him and God. He did not speak a single word while his accusers were being punished by God. He later spoke only in their defense. 82

88 Meekness gave Moses the strength not to retaliate when falsely accused. Numbers 12:3 (Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth). 2 Timothy 2:24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, 25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; 26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. 2. Meekness keeps the person giving the Word from being offended when the Word is not received and helps him/her continue to give it. Meekness is being humble in spirit and lowly in mind. It is the opposite of self-assertiveness and self-interest. Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Galatians 6:1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. 83

89 3. Meekness means to be teachable. James 1:21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. Amplified Bible James 1:21 So get rid of all uncleanness and the rampant outgrowth of wickedness, and in a humble (gentle, modest) spirit receive and welcome the Word which implanted and rooted [in your hearts] contains the power to save your souls. Believers who are meek are that way because they have chosen to pay the cost to cultivate the fruit of meekness in their lives. Fasting helps to cultivate meekness. Psalms 35:13 But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth: I humbled my soul with fasting; and my prayer returned into mine own bosom. Meek men in the Old Testament and New Testament were men that fasted. Many times, food has been a tool of the enemy to cause people to miss God. Examples of this include: a. Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:6) b. Children of Israel (Exodus 16:3) c. Esau (Hebrews 12:16) d. Satan tried to use it against Jesus (Matthew 4:3) 84

90 Isaiah 58:6 Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Isaiah 58:12 And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in. Wilderness experiences help you develop meekness if you allow them to. 4. Another way to develop meekness is denial of self. We live in an age of much self-indulgence and self-gratification. You have yielded to the Spirit as soon as you cease resisting the leading of the Spirit. Yielding to the Spirit is not an action of the body. It is an attitude of the heart. For the fruit of the Spirit of Christ to develop in you, you must surrender to Him. Colossians 3:1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. Declaration The Holy Spirit helps me to not be offended and to maintain a humble, teachable attitude. 85

91 Chapter 9 THE FRUIT OF TEMPERANCE Cultivating and developing temperance will give you divine strength to control yourself in the ways that are pleasing to God. Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. Amplified Bible Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness, 23 Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (selfrestraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge]. Temperance is moderation in the indulgence of appetites and passions. The various powers bestowed by God upon mankind are capable of abuse. The right use of these powers demands the controlling power of your will under the operation of the Spirit of God. The opposite of temperance is drunkenness, greed, covetousness, reveling, sensuality and pride. 86

92 TEMPERANCE Stability Steadiness Constraint Evenness Forbearance Prudence Moderation Sober Judiciousness Self-discipline Self-control Continent Masterful Strong, robust Nothing in excess Controlling one s appetite Exhibit self-government Keeping within bounds Having power over Eating to live, not living to eat 1. Temperance comes from the Greek word egkrateia, which means self-control or continence. Egkrateia is derived from the Greek word kratos, meaning strength. Kratos is translated power in the second half of Ephesians 1, verse 19. Ephesians 1:19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places. The same strength and power that raised Jesus from the dead is available to you today as a fruit of the Spirit. 87

93 2. The fruit of self-control enables you to crucify the flesh. Galatians 5:24 And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. 3. The supernatural seed of strength and self-control must be cultivated in order for it to produce overcoming power by the Spirit. 1 Corinthians 9:24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. 26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. In First Corinthians 9:25, temperate is used figuratively of the rigid self-control practiced by athletes in training with a view to gaining the prize. This passage of Scripture explains that every man who strives in the matches trains himself by all manner of self-restraint, and anyone who enters a contest goes into strict training. Temperance means to exercise self-restraint in diet and chastity, as well as to contain oneself. Subjection in First Corinthians 9:27 means to be a slave driver, to enslave and to subdue. Castaway means worthless, disapproved and rejected. The Apostle Paul kept his body under control so that he himself would not be a castaway. 88

94 Chastity fredom from sexual impurity, purity in thoughts, holy, purity, fredom from admixture of evil, freedom from defilement 4. Sin does not lie in the temptation to sin, but in yielding to sin. 1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. Romans 8:13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. The children of Israel were overcome in four areas of the lust of the flesh idolatry, fornication, murmuring and tempting Christ. Covetousness is the same as idolatry. Colossian 3:5 Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry. God commanded people in the Old Testament not to bow down and serve idols. Serve in Hebrew means to work (in any sense), to enslave and to keep in bondage. 89

95 It is possible for Christians to allow the work they are doing for God to become an idol. They can become enslaved to the work and not allow the Holy Spirit to guide and flow through them as He desires. Serving an idol through covetousness is equivalent to bowing down to a graven image. Ephesians 5:5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Worship and service can be measured by how much time, effort and expense you give to: a. God b. A blessing that God gave you c. Other things God s provisions that can be abused include: a. Sleep b. Food c. Prosperity d. Desire for things e. Other areas of life that have been misprioritized or misused Galatians 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 90

96 Seditions in Galatians 5:20 are incitements and resistance to or insurrection against lawful authority. It includes resistance to God and God-ordained authorities, as well as children obeying parents, husband as head of the family unit and government authorities. Ephesians 5:22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your 0wn husbands, as unto the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. 24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Ephesians 6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Romans 13:1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 1 Peter 2:13 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; 14 Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. 1 Peter 2:17 Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king. 91

97 5. Temperance aids believers in resisting the temptation to murmur. 1 Corinthians 10:10 Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer. Galatians 5:15 But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another. Proverbs 6:2 Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. 6. You must yield to the Spirit in order to develop the fruit of temperance. Galatians 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. 7. It is only when your inner man (spirit) is strong that your flesh can be brought under control! Ephesians 3:16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man. 8. Speaking in tongues builds you up by building up your inner man. 1 Corinthians 14:4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. 92

98 9. Praise strengthens the inner man. Psalms 8:2 Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger. Matthew 21:16 And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise? 10. Your body must be under control before you can let the perfect will of God come through your life. Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. 11. Paul's sum of God's requirements as he preaches to Felix (administrator of Judea) included temperance. Acts 24:25 And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee. 93

99 12. Temperance is included among the Christian attributes of Second Peter 1:5 10, which says, "If ye do these things, ye shall never fall." 2 Peter 1:5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; 6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; 7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. 8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. 10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: 11 For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. 12 Therefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth. The verses in Second Peter 1:5-12 are speaking of being firmly established in the truth that you now hold, of being a steadfast believer in the truth that you possess and of being well-grounded in the truth that has already reached you. 94

100 Amplified Bible 2 Peter 1:5 For this very reason, adding your diligence [to the divine promises], employ every effort in exercising your faith to develop virtue (excellence, resolution, Christian energy), and in [exercising] virtue [develop] knowledge (intelligence), 6 And in [exercising] knowledge [develop] self-control, and in [exercising] self-control [develop] steadfastness (patience, endurance), and in [exercising] steadfastness [develop] godliness (piety), 7 And in [exercising] godliness [develop] brotherly affection, and in [exercising] brotherly affection [develop] Christian love. 8 For as these qualities are yours and increasingly abound in you, they will keep [you] from being idle or unfruitful unto the [personal] knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One). 9 For whoever lacks these qualities is blind, [spiritually] shortsighted, seeing only what is near to him, and has become oblivious [to the fact] that he was cleansed from his old sins. 10 Because of this, brethren, be all the more solicitous and eager to make sure (to ratify, to strengthen, to make steadfast) your calling and election; for if you do this, you will never stumble or fall. 11 Thus there will be richly and abundantly provided for you entry into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 12 So I intend always to remind you about these things, although indeed you know them and are firm in the truth that [you] now [hold]. 95

101 13. Requirements for a bishop include temperance. Titus 1:8 But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate. 1 Timothy 3:2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach. Circumspectly perfectly, diligently, live the gospel by watching your conduct, walk about watching on every hand to avoid danger 14. All Christians should be sober-minded. 1 Thessalonians 5:8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. Sober in First Thessalonians 5:8 means continent, of a sound mind, conformed to the mind of Christ, keeping yourself in hand, strong in a thing, masterful abstemious, prudent and displays self-control in appetites, words and actions. It is also to be circumspect (walk without stumbling), to abstain from wine, to be in right mind and self-controlled. Philippians 4:5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Moderation in Philippians 4:5 means to be forbearing, mild, considerate, reasonable, patient and gentle. 96

102 15. Christians are told to walk circumspectly. Ephesians 5:15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise. In Ephesians 5:15, circumspectly means: a. Look carefully how you walk. b. Take heed that you walk strictly. c. See that you walk without stumbling. d. Live life with a due sense of responsibility. 16. Incontinency is a lack of temperance. 1 Corinthians 7:5 Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency. 2 Timothy 3:1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good. Incontinent want of self-restraint, excess, without self-control, no control of appetites or passions 97

103 Galatians 5:24 And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. Satan wants you to be out of control so he can control you. God wants you to be in control of yourself and to choose the right way of your own free will. 17. God gives us a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Fear means cowardice, to shrink from danger and timidity. Sound means self-control, self-discipline, self-restraint, wise discretion, calm and well-balanced. Another way to translate Second Timothy 1:7 is to say that God has given us a spirit of power, love, a calm and wellbalanced mind, discipline and self-control, and inspires strength, love and self-discipline. 18. Do not let your hearts be overcharged. Luke 21:34 And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. Overcharged overpowered lest your minds ever be dulled Surfeiting excessive eating 98

104 See to it that your minds are never clouded. Cares of life, drunkenness, and overeating can dull your mind. Develop the quality of prudence in your life. 19. Prudence is practical wisdom and insight. Ephesians 1:8 Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence. Prudence is to: behave be considerate be an expert be prosperous be skillful and have good success be circumspect and intelligent guide wittingly have practical wisdom and insight 20. Exercising self-control is more important than great, physical accomplishments. God thinks more highly of a person that is in control of himself than He does of a person that is able to accomplish great physical feats, but lacks self-control. Proverbs 16:32 He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city. 99

105 21. Maintaining calmness promotes health. Proverbs 14:30 A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones. Amplified Bible Proverbs 14:30 A calm and undisturbed mind and heart are the life and health of the body, but envy, jealousy and wrath are as rottenness of the bones. 22. Do not let circumstances control you. Philippians 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. Amplified Bible Philippians 4:11 Not that I am implying that I was, in any personal want, for I have learned how to be content (satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or disquieted) in whatever state I am. Wuest Translation Philippians 4:11 so far as I am concerned, I have come to learn, in the circumstances in which I am placed to be independent of these and self-sufficient. 23. Be strong in grace. 2 Timothy 2:1 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. Be strong in believing God s Word and depending upon His grace to do for you what you cannot do for yourself. 100

106 Declaration I receive divine strength that enables me to have self-control according to God s Word. This enables me to be a more effective, productive Christian and protects me from the pitfalls and snares of the enemy. 101

107 It is my prayer that the precepts in this study guide will aide you in cultivating and developing the character of Jesus Christ in your life. Spend time meditating on the Scriptures of all nine fruits of the Spirit, especially on those you are not as strong in. Although you may be strong in some fruits of the Spirit, the enemy will attack you in areas that you are the weakest. Cultivating and developing the fruit of the Spirit will remove places where the enemy might get a foothold in your life and will cause you to be a doer of the Word of God. Conrad L. DeFriese P.O. Box 2627 LaGrange, GA

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