Growing in the fruit of the Spirit

This blog has some encouraging reflections on the fruit of the Spirit, and a great reminder to trust God to be working in us.

Reflecting on the fruit of the Spirit never grows old. It’s a passage of scripture that I sometimes feel like I’m making headway on, and long to grow in more, but often I can feel that I’m falling very short.

I think of how I lost my temper after asking my daughter to put on her coat for the millionth time, did that show self-control and patience? I think of how I ranted about our neighbour knocking over our bins instead of demonstrating love in front of my children.

I would usually pick an area I struggle in, like patience for example, and intentionally try to be better in that area. Whilst it is never bad to strive for more patience, I will inevitability slip at some point and begin the same cycle. The emphasis is often on what I can do not what God can change.

Philippians 1:6 says:

“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” (ESV)

This verse says that not only will a good work be completed in me, but that he will bring it to completion. So I need to allow God to work on those things that could be more like Christ, to draw near to him and look to deepen that intimate relationship with him. If I focus on these things, then the fruit I long to see in my life will continue to develop over time.

Instead of striving to do more or be better, I can share that struggle with God. I can pray and ask for him to be with me, and help me in the areas in which I need his support and guidance.

I can share this struggle with my children too, I can say sorry when I need to and explain that even mum gets its wrong. I can share that I have prayed, or even pray with them and demonstrate that side of my relationship with God.

I pray that this will have blessed you in some way, and that you won’t feel the pressure to do more or give up entirely. I pray that you would look to God and lean on him, finding ways to share your relationship with God, with your children.

We can help each other

Share ideas and learn from each other so we can all succeed in inspiring faith in our homes.

"It was so good to talk to other mums who are struggling with the same things as me."

Run an Inspire session

Tell your friends about us

Run an Inspire session or follow us on social media. Let’s do this together!

Join the community

Sign up to receive regular emails and inspiration from Care for the Family.

Join the community
Sending