-Galatians 5:22-23
The fruit of the Spirit is sweet to the soul. As we 'taste and see' the goodness of the Lord, we long to be more like Him—more loving, more joyful, more patient. Kinder and gentler. Every heart in which He works desires the fruit of steadfast peace, enduring faithfulness, godly goodness and righteous self-control. But before the harvest, the soil must be tilled. Before the fruit must come the furrow.
Do we desire patience? Then we should not be surprised when the Lord digs the sharp edge of the plow deep into the hardened ground of our impatient hearts. Do we long after joy? Then let us not shrink from the shovel that breaks up our fallow soil, unearthing roots of bitterness. Do we want for the humble, selfless, sacrificial love of our Savior? Then we must allow the weeds of pride, selfishness and apathy to be cut down and burned in the fire.
Only after the hard work of preparation, only after the impurities have been purged from the ground does the Farmer begin to plant. Each tiny seed is carefully sown, His loving hand covering and protecting it with soft, rich earth. But His labor is not over...
As we wait for growth and for the promised fruit, the Farmer faithfully nourishes the hidden seeds. We feel the warmth of His face shining upon us; we drink deep the eternal fount of His word; we rest in quiet stillness. And though it may seem as if our soil lies barren and the Farmer is not as active as He once was, amazing things are happening just below the surface!
From the darkness of the earth, life breaks forth! The Spirit brings first a small, green sprout, then a strong stalk. Then come spreading leaves, buds and fragrant blooms. And finally—in its season—fruit!
Yet even still the Farmer toils: tending, pruning, cultivating and gathering. For on its own, the land can produce naught but thorn and thistle. The diligent, tender care of the Farmer is the sole source of good growth. All else are fruitless endeavors!
We all look forward with fondness to the fruit of a life lived with Christ. But we cannot forsake the time, the blood, sweat and tears that go into producing that fruit. If we will but yield our hearts to His work, if we will root down in faithful obedience in the place prepared for us, then we shall attain to the full potential of Christ in us!
May we see the fruit of our Lord's labor, the sweat of His brow as we become unto Him purposeful, pleasant and productive. May we share in His joy as we mature and grow strong. And may we bring Him glory—refreshing and delighting Him for all His faithfulness unto us!