THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT: Part Five (conclusion) -- Devotional for November 23, from "Good Seeds"

What happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard – things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity, a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, and able to marshal and direct our energies wisely. (Galatians 5:22-23)

Some people have great power over other people – others just wish they did! Some people have great power with God – others like to think they do, but reality proves otherwise! And some people claim to have great power over their own bodily parts and passions – but if they really do, we’d like to know who they are and how they do it, for they have a lot to teach the rest of us! But, James, pastor of First Jerusalem Christian Church, would beg to differ with them, for concerning control over just one area, the tongue, he wrote: “He who does not stumble in what he says is a perfect man, able to bridle the rest of the body as well” (James 3:2). But then again, who among us is always loving, or joyful, or peaceful, or patient? And so, as we examine SELF-CONTROL, the last of the nine Galatians 5 spiritual fruits, we view it as a work in progress, knowing we’ll not get it right all the time – not until glory! And in heaven self-discipline won’t even be an issue: because the propensity and temptation to sin will be gone, there will be no struggle to control our passions and desires. Self-control for us then will come as naturally as the kindness, goodness, faithfulness and meekness that we will finally have perfected. Instead of having to practice self-control and the other spiritual fruits, we will be occupied in the practice of godliness (using that word the way it is used of a highly experienced and proficient doctor practicing his trade). Paul makes this contrast in his advice to young Timothy when he says, “Discipline of the body has its place, but the discipline of the soul is far more valuable, since it holds promise for this present life and the life to come” (I Timothy 4:8). Just as there will be no more pain or disease or death in heaven, so there will be no more gluttony or obesity or addiction. But where we are now is no “heaven on earth.” We each have our own demons whispering in our ears to eat this, smoke that, speak thus, take a sip, take a peek! These things won’t hurt you, but actually do you good, making you wise, able to commune with those around you. Indeed, “you will be like God, knowing good and evil! (Genesis 3:5) What a lie! The only time we’re like God is when we are able to marshal and direct our energies in the wisdom and ways of God!