Communion with the Holy Spirit - Chapter 27 - Fruit of the Spirit

 

 

Chapter 27

Fruit of the Spirit

Love

 

Love — Introduction

 

Loving God and loving others are the #1 Kingdom principles.

 

Our love walk is vitally necessary when it comes to receiving healing and deliverance, or whatever it is that we are asking the Lord for. The failure to walk in love can prevent a person from receiving their healing and can block the flow of God’s blessings. Whatever we receive from the Lord, we receive by faith. Faith works by love (Galations 5:6). Without love, our faith will not work properly. Therefore, if we are not receiving answers to our prayers, perhaps we need to check up on our love walk. 

 

Unforgiveness and hatred are deadly to our love walk, and these are blessing blockers. To hate our brother is the same as walking in darkness, according to 1 John 2:11. We cannot say that we love God and are walking in the light, yet hate our brother at the same time (1 John 1:5-8, 2:9). Hatred is as the sin of murder, and no murderers will inherit eternal life (1 John 3:15, Revelation 21:8). However, if we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

 

If you do not have love in your heart for someone, the Holy Spirit can place that love there. Romans 5:5 tells us that the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

 

Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:44 to love our enemies. “But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.” It is not easy to follow this command, but it is possible by the power of the Holy Spirit.

 

In the Old Testament, there was probably nothing of greater importance than the burnt offerings and sacrifices. Yet love is superior to all of the sacrifices. David said in Psalms 51:16-17 that God does not delight in sacrifices and burnt offerings, but in a broken and contrite heart. The heart and attitudes of man is what God is after. Mark 12:33 (NKJV) says, “And to love Him with all the heart, with all the understanding, with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love one's neighbor as oneself, is more than all the whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.”

 

The law of Moses contains numerous laws. However, if we just walk in one law—the law of love—we will have fulfilled the law. Romans 13:8-10 (NKJV) says, “Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law. For the commandments, ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ ‘You shall not covet,’ and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law.”

 

If you walk in love, you will not break any of the ten commandments.

 

We’ve read how important the Baptism of the Holy Spirit is, the Gifts of the Spirit and speaking in other tongues. But love is superior to that. The Apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians 13:1-3, “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 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, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.” Whatever we do or accomplish in life—if there is not love, then it’s all for nothing.

 

Jesus commands us to love one another. John 13:34-35 (NKJV) says, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” In John 14:21 Jesus said that if we love Him, we will keep His commandments. In Verse 23, Jesus says, “If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” In John 15:10, Jesus tells us that if we keep His commandments, we will abide in His love, just as He kept His Father's commandments and abide in His love.

 

In John 15:13-14 (NKJV), Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends. You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.”

 

Paul said in 1 Corinthians 13:13 (NKJV), “And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”

 

God is love. To walk in love is to walk in the light and be one with God. To love our neighbor is to have sweet fellowship with them with Christ at the center.

 

The Greek language, in which the New Testament was written in, has several words which are translated into English as “love”. The primary Greek words for love we will be looking at in this study are agapao (a verb) and agape (a noun).

 

 

Greek Words For Love

 

Listed below are the Greek words which are translated as “love” in the New Testament. The numbers in parenthesis besides each Greek word corresponds to the Strong’s New Testament Concordance number for that word. For example, agape (26).

 

Agape (26) – a noun. Sacrificial, unselfish love; benevolence; good will. God’s love for mankind. Our love for God and others. Agape love involves feelings of affection, but is based on a decision of the will. Agape love always gives, and puts the interests of others before its own.

 

Agape is a term used for the Love Feasts in the early church. The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary states: “At this meal the Christians, in connection with their common Redeemer Jesus Christ, ignored all distinctions of rank, wealth, and culture, and met as members of one family.”

 

Below are listed the New Testament Scriptures where the word agape is found.

 

Matthew 24:12; Luke 11:42; John 5:42, 13:35, 15:9-10,13, 17:26; Romans 5:5,8, 8:35,39, 12:9, 13:10, 14:15, 15:30; 1 Corinthians 8:1, 13:1-4,8,13, 14:1, 16:14,24; 2 Corinthians 2:4,8, 5:14, 6:6, 8:7-8,24, 13:11,14; Galations 5:6,13,22; Ephesians 1:4,15, 2:4, 3:17,19, 4:2,15-16, 5:2, 6:23; Philippians 1:9,15, 2:1-2; Colossians 1:4,8,13, 2:2, 3:14; 1 Thessalonians 1:3, 3:6,12, 5:8,13; 2 Thessalonians 1:3, 2:10, 3:5; 1 Timothy 1:5,14, 2:15, 4:12, 6:11; 2 Timothy 1:7,13, 2:22, 3:10; Titus 2:2; Philemon 5:7,9; Hebrews 6:10,10:24; 1 Peter 4:8, 5:14; 2 Peter 1:7; 1 John 2:5,15, 3:1,16-17, 4:7-10,12,16-18, 5:3; 2 John 3:6; 3 John 6; Jude 2:12,21; Revelation 2:4,19.

 

 

Agapao (25) – a verb. To regard the best welfare of another. To have preference for one another. To prize and treasure. Love for the brethren. God’s love for mankind as demonstrated by giving His one and only Son. Our love for God demonstrated in affectionate reverence, prompt obedience, and grateful recognition of benefits received.

 

Matthew 5:43-44,46, 6:24, 19:19, 22:37,39; Mark 10:21, 12:30-31,33; Luke 6:27,32,35, 7:5,42,47, 10:27, 11:43, 16:13; John 3:16,19,35, 8:42, 10:17, 11:5,12:43, 13:1,23,34, 14:15,21,23-24,28,31, 15:9,12,17, 17:23-24,26, 19:26, 21:7,15-16,20; Romans 8:28,37, 9:13,25, 13:8-9; 1 Corinthians 2:9, 8:3; 2 Corinthians 9:7, 11:11, 12:15; Galations 2:20, 5:14; Ephesians 1:6, 2:4, 5:25,28,33, 6:24; Colossians 3:12,19; 1 Thessalonians 1:4, 4:9; 2 Thessalonians 2:13,16; 2 Timothy 4:8,10; Hebrews 1:9, 12:6; James 1:12, 2:5,8; 1 Peter 1:8,22, 2:17, 3:10; 2 Peter 2:15; 1 John 2:10,15, 3:10-11,14,18,23, 4:7-8,10-12,19-21, 5:1-2; 2 John 1:5; 3 John 1; Revelation 1:5, 3:9, 12:11, 20:9.

 

Phileo (5368) – friendship; to be kindly disposed to one; personal attachment; tender affection; sentimental feelings; to love from the heart. Matthew 6:5, 10:37, 23:6, 26:48; Mark 14:44; Luke 20:46, 22:47; John 5:20, 11:3,36, 12:25, 15:19, 16:27, 20:2, 21:15-17, 1 Corinthians 16:22, Titus 3:15; Revelation 3:19, 22:15.

 

Philos (5384) – a dear one; to be fond of; a friend; an associate; a neighbor. Matthew 11:19; Luke 7:6,34, 11:5-6,8, 12:4, 14:10,12, 15:6,9,29, 16:9, 21:16, 23:12; John 3:29, 11:11, 15:13-15, 19:12; Acts 10:24, 19:31, 27:3; James 2:23, 4:4; 3 John 14.

 

Philadelphia (5360) – brotherly love; the love which Christians cherish for each other as brethren. Romans 12:10; 1 Thessalonians 4:9; Hebrews 13:1; 1 Peter 1:22; 2 Peter 1:7.

 

Philadelphos (5361) – the word in which “Philadelphia” is derived; love for the brethren.  1 Peter 3:8.

 

Philandros (5362) – affectionate as a wife; a wife showing affection to her husband.  Titus 2:4a.

 

Philoteknos (5388) – loving one’s offspring or children. Titus 2:4b.

 

Philanthropia (5363) – love of mankind; benevolence; philanthropy.  Acts 28:2; Titus 3:4.

 

Philanthropos (5364) – love of mankind; philanthropy; humane; kindness.  Acts 27:3.

 

Philoproteuo (5383) – to aspire after pre-eminence; to desire to be first; ambitious of distinction of status.  3 John 9.

 

Philarguria (5365) – avarice; greed; covetousness; stinginess; love of money.  1 Timothy 6:10.

 

Philaguros (5366) – avarice; greed; covetousness; stinginess; love of money.  Luke 16:14; 2 Timothy 3:2.

 

Spalgchnon (4698) – bowels; intestines; heart; liver.  Denoting tender mercies, affection, sympathy, compassion, reaching out to those in need.  Luke 1:78; 2 Corinthians 7:15; Philippians 1:8, 2:1; Colossians 3:12; Philemon 7,12,20; 1 John 3:17.

 

Agape (noun) and agapao (verb) is the highest form of love, and is imparted to us by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5).

 

Without agape love in operation, it is not possible to act in genuine phileo or philos love (love for the brethren, family and friends). How can relationships thrive and survive if we mistreat each other, are rude to each other, get easily angered, do not show courtesy and consideration, do not show respect and honor to one another, are unkind to each other, backbite our neighbor, say cruel and hurtful things to each other, display jealousy, and do things which create an atmosphere of mistrust?

 

Agape love is the kind of love that God requires us to walk in. This kind of love is to be demonstrated to everyone. Agape love is the foundation of solid relationships.

 

Demonstrating agape love from the heart is crucial. One cannot enter heaven without walking in love. Agape love is higher than human love, and it is not a kind of love which we can give out in our own flesh or human strength. This kind of love comes from God, who IS love. This love is given to us from the Holy Spirit who dwells on the inside of us. The Lord wants us to be a vessel in which He can love others through us.

 

In 1 Corinthians 13, the Apostle Paul gives us a fuller understanding of what it means to walk in agape love. Paul defines agape love for us in practical terms that relate to our day-to-day living.

Love Defined in 1 Corinthians 13

 

Paul the Apostle defines for us what agape love is in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a.

 

He writes: “Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.” NKJV

 

Below I have given the Greek words and Greek definitions for what love is and what love is not, so that we may have a fuller understanding of what Paul is teaching. The numbers within the parenthesis refer to the Strong’s New Testament Concordance.

 

Love is …

 

Patient (3114 makrothumeo) – to be long spirited, forbearing, patient; to be patient in bearing the offenses and injuries of others; to be mild and slow in avenging; to be long suffering; slow to anger, slow to punish.

 

Kind (5541 chresteuomai) – to show oneself helpful; i.e. to act benevolently; to show oneself mild.

 

Not Envious (2206 zeloo) – to have warmth of feeling against; to be heated or boiling; jealousy.

 

Not boastful (4068 perpereuomai) – braggart; to vaunt oneself.

 

Not Proud or Arrogant (5448 phusioo) – to be haughty; to inflate; blow up; blow out; to cause to swell up.

 

Not Rude (807 aschemoneo) – to be (or act) unbecoming; behave unseemly.

 

Not Self-Seeking (2212 zeteo) – seek; require; demand (one’s own way); selfishness; self-centeredness.

 

Not Easily Angered (3947 paroxuno) – to exasperate; to irritate; provoke; rouse to anger; to be sharp.

 

Thinking No Evil (2556 kakos) – troublesome; injurious; pernicious; destructive; baneful; keeping a record of wrongs.

 

Not Rejoicing in Iniquity (93 adikia) – injustice; moral wrongfulness (of character, life or act).

 

Rejoices in Truth (225 aletheia) – what is true in any matter under consideration (opposed to what is feigned, fictitious, false); truth as a personal excellence; that candor or mind which is free from affectation, pretense, simulation, falsehood, deceit.

 

Beareth All Things (Protects) (4722 stego) – to roof over, i.e. (figuratively) to cover with silence; to keep secret; to hide; conceal; to protect or keep by covering; to preserve; to bear up against; hold out against, and so to endure, bear, forbear.

 

Believeth All Things (Trust) (4100 pisteuo) – to have faith (in, or with respect to, a person); to think to be true; to be persuaded of; to credit; place confidence in.

 

Hopeth All Things (Expect) (1679 elpizo) – to expect; expect the best.

 

Endures All Things (5278 hupomeno) – abide, remain; i.e. bear trials; have fortitude; persevere.

 

Love Never Fails (or Falls) (4098 pipto) – to fall; used of descent from a higher place to a lower; used of descent from a standing to a prostrate position; to fall from a state of uprightness; i.e. to sin; to come to an end; cease.

 

  

Love Declarations of Faith

 

Years ago I was watching the Believer’s Voice of Victory, with Gloria Copeland teaching on love. She was teaching from 1 Corinthians 13. She challenged her viewers to replace the word “love” with “I am” or “I”, and then declare it in faith.

 

When I declared it outloud, there were some things in 1 Corinthians 13 where I said to myself, “Yeah, right” (I knew that I fell short of living up to 1 Corinthians 13 in some ways). However, if you continue to confess 1 Corinthians 13 by replacing the word “love” with “I am” or “I”, or your first name, those confessions of faith will take root. Your heart will begin to change, and the Lord will help you to grow in love.

 

Declare Aloud …

 

I am patient. I am long suffering. I am slow to anger. I am patient in bearing the offenses of others.

 

I am kind. I am mild. I am benevolent. I am helpful.

 

I am not envious. I have no feelings of jealousy against another.

 

I am not boastful. I do not vaunt or brag on myself.

 

I am not proud or arrogant. I am not haughty. I am not puffed up.

 

I am not rude. I do not act unbecoming. I do not behave unseemly.

 

I am not self-seeking. I do not demand my own way. I am not selfish or self-centered.

 

I am not easily angered. I do not get exasperated quickly. I am not easily provoked. I am not sharp with others.

 

I think no evil. I do not keep a record of wrongs. I do not have spiteful, destructive, injurious or malicious thoughts towards anyone.

 

I do not rejoice in iniquity. I do not take pleasure in injustice or moral wrongfulness. I do not rejoice in someone else’s calamity.

 

I rejoice in the truth. I do not pay heed to what is fictitious and false. I take no part in rumors.

 

I bear all things. I protect and cover. I do not expose the secrets or weaknesses of others. I can be trusted to keep a confidence.

 

I believe all things. I have faith in that person. I trust that person. I have confidence in that person. (This is not saying that you should trust every person because not every person can be trusted. This passage may be saying to look for the best in every person, and that trust is the foundation of a healthy relationship.)

 

I hope all things. I expect for the best.

 

I endure all things. I remain steadfast in bearing trials. I have an attitude of fortitude and perseverance.

 

I will never fall away from Christ because I walk in love. I will not fall into sin as long as I put on love. My love for Jesus Christ and others will never end. I will never cease to show love. Love never fails. Love is the solution to most problems.

 

Amen, so be it!

 

 

 

Love — Serving Others

 

In this message, we will focus on expressing agape love by serving one another.

 

Galations 5:13-15 (NKJV) says, “For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this. ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ But if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another.”

 

To serve means to minister to others, attending to and waiting upon others, caring for others, serving the welfare of others. To be a servant one must have a spirit of humility. Servanthood is putting the best interests and needs of others before oneself. A servant attitude is one of meekness, kindness and gentleness.

 

To serve others is to show honor, preferring one another (Romans 12:10). To serve others is to esteem others higher than ourselves. Philippians 2:3-4 says, “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.”

 

To the world, the idea of servanthood has a negative connotation. The ways of the fleshly nature are very selfish and self-centered. The fleshly nature is more concerned about the needs of self than the needs of others. The flesh seeks to be in control, seeks to be served, and often times steps on others in order to get ahead.

 

The fleshly nature says, “What can I get out of this?” … “What can you do for me?” … “How will this benefit me?” … “What are my best interests?” … “I will give my 50% if you give your 50%.”

 

On the contrary, a servant asks the question: “What can I do to serve you?” … “How can I meet the needs of others?” … “How can I minister to others more effectively?” … “What is in the best welfare of the other person?”  A servant gives his/her 100% regardless of whether or not others do the same.

 

A servant endeavors to be sensitive to the feelings of others, and is considerate of the needs of others. A servant looks for opportunities to serve.

 

A servant does not have the attitude that he/she is too great, or too important, to serve others or do menial tasks that are below them.

 

In Acts 6:2, the twelve disciples said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the Word of God and serve tables.” It wasn’t that they felt that serving tables was “beneath” them. Rather, Jesus had called them to devote themselves to prayer and the preaching of the Gospel. Serving tables was taking up most of their time so that they could not fulfill what they were called to do. Therefore, deacons were appointed to take care of these matters.

 

Jesus defined greatness as that of being a servant. Before God exalts a person to leadership, He looks for a servant heart. Mark 10:43-44 says, “Whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister; and whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all.”

 

A servant leader seeks to be a good example to others. They lead by serving, and their followers learn to serve by observing their leader.

 

Jesus is our ultimate example of a servant leader. Mark 10:45 (NKJV) says, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” John 6:38 (NKJV) states: “For I have come down from Heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.”

 

Jesus is God, yet He left the splendor of Heaven and humbled Himself as a man (Philippians 2:4-11) and the Father exalted Him with the Name above all other names.

 

Jesus laid down His life for us so that we could have everlasting life. Jesus taught us to lay down our lives down for one another (1 John 3:16).

 

Jesus is our role model of how to demonstrate servanthood to others. He left His place at the head table to wash His disciples’ feet (John 13:5). Jesus also displayed humility by ministering to the needs of people around him. He healed people and went about doing good. He did not have the attitude of “leave Me alone … I’m too busy”. He took time out minister one on one with people in need.

 

Most of us live busy lives and have responsibilities to take care of. Also, since we are not God, we cannot meet all the needs of others around us. God does His job in taking care of the needs of everyone. He’s just asking us to do whatever He leads us to do. With our loved ones, family, church, and within our own sphere of influence, He wants us to display a servant’s heart.

 

Love — Jesus and the Bride Serve One Another

 

The relationship between Christ and the Church is a picture of mutual servanthood and submission.

 

Jesus, the Bridegroom, Serves the Church

 

Jesus serves the Church by demonstrating His unending love, humility, mercy, goodness, kindness, graciousness and faithfulness. He leads by example. There is no selfishness in Him. He is concerned about the needs of His Bride. He laid His life down for His Bride, and He wants us to lay our lives down for one another.

 

Jesus is very patient. He is not harsh, sharp or easily angered. He cherishes His Bride, fostering her with tender loving care, with the implication of brooding over her like a hen would brood over her chicks keeping them warm and safe. Jesus nourishes and nurtures His Church.

 

Jesus speaks tenderly to His Bride and demonstrates His affection and warmth. He romances her and tells her how radiant and beautiful she is (Song of Solomon is a picture of Jesus and the Church). He washes and cleanses her by the Word (Ephesians 5:26). He takes her to the banqueting hall (Song of Solomon 2:4). He provides for her, protects her, affirms her, and ministers to her needs. He shows her honor and respect. He never overrides her will or forces her to do anything, but allows us to have free will.

 

Jesus leads without dominating His Church. When we call out to Him, He is not too busy to listen to us. He is there for us. He is faithful forever, even if the Church is not. Jesus’ actions of servanthood and humility provokes in His Bride the desire to follow in His footsteps.

The Bride (Church) Serves Jesus

 

There is a distinction between being a church-goer and being the bride of Christ. A person can be religious and not even be saved. The Bride is in love with Jesus and seeks to do His will.

 

The Bride serves her Bridegroom (Jesus). She finds out what pleases Him the most and then does those things.

 

The Bride serves her Lord by giving herself wholeheartedly to Him. When He draws her to come and spend time in His Presence and share spiritual oneness with Him in the King’s chambers, she does not reject or refuse Him. She says yes with gladness of heart not because she feels obligated, but because she loves Him and delights in her Bridegroom. She does not always wait to be beckoned to the Secret Place, but she comes to Jesus on her own because He likes to be woo’d too. Although Jesus is God, He has a need to feel and know He is loved and wanted.

 

The Bride serves Jesus by loving Him in the way He desires to be loved. She shows Him utmost respect and honor. She reveres Him, holding Him in high esteem. She does not say things or act in a manner which demeans or causes shame to or belittles her Lord or His Name. She waits in His Presence and ministers to Him. She tells Him how beautiful He is. She lavishes Him with praise and compliments. She obeys Him and submits to His leadership. She has a heart of submission and sensitivity to His Spirit. She chooses to relinquish control and lets Him be in the driver’s seat.

 

The Bride serves the Lord by dying to the flesh and self in order to live for the Spirit. She takes on His Name and her life is no longer her own. She puts Christ’s interests and plans above that of her own. She chooses to decrease, so that Christ may increase. She chooses to yield to God’s authority and leadership. The Bride adores and greatly admires her Lord. She keeps His first command — which is to love God with her whole heart and to love her neighbor as herself.

 

The relationship between Christ and the Church is a type and picture of the kind of relationship God desires between a husband and wife. Pride, sin, selfishness, hurts, divisions, the cares of this life, financial problems, incompatibility, sexual impurity (such as adultery and porn) and many other factors have robbed man and wife from experiencing the ideal union that God originally intended in the Garden of Eden.

 

The Word is full of encouraging news and truths of how to have successful relationships in marriage and with family and friends. The Word teaches that in order to have joy and peace in our relationships that it requires us to, first and foremost, walk in agape (or agapao) love. (The difference between agape and agapao is that agape is a noun and agapao is a verb – action word. Both words have the same meaning.)

 

Agape requires us to die to the flesh and put others first. It requires servanthood and humility. It means to treat people right and esteem others higher than ourselves. It means to consider the welfare of others and not only our own interests.

 

An excellent book that I would highly recommend if you are married, or would like to be married, is entitled How To Make Your Marriage Exciting by Charles and Frances Hunter. They were married for almost 40 years before Frances went to be with the Lord, and then Charles passed on a year later. They claim that in their marriage, they never had an argument or cross word. In their book they discuss some key points the Lord taught them in order to have a fulfilling marriage relationship. Everything they teach involves demonstrating the fruit of the Spirit (Galations 5:22-24).

 

From the intimate relationship they had with the Lord, it carried over into their marriage. First John 1:7 says, “But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.”

 

The chapter titles in their book are: Be honest … Be loving … Be patient … Be courteous … Be considerate … Be fun to live with … Be desirous (avoid doing things that irritate your spouse, be well pleasing to your partner) … Be forgiving … Be loyal … Be one (be a united team) … Be married (intimacy of spirit, soul and body) … Be in harmony with God’s plan (doing God’s will) … In sickness and in health, for better or for worse (commitment).

Honor, Respect, Courtesy and Consideration

 

Agape love and servanthood means to show honor, respect, courtesy and consideration to one another. NOT doing these things causes resentments and can spoil a relationship very quickly. Even little things which another finds to be inconsiderate can lead to heated arguments.

 

In family relationships, if you have been repeatedly told that something you do (even if it seems insignificant to you) is irritating or inconsiderate, then on your part it is a form of not showing courtesy. If you continue to do it, then anger builds up for the other person/s. The other family member/s will feel like they are not being respected or shown honor. In one way, part of love is to overlook quirks and not let it bother you so much. Yet another part of love is to be sensitive to the feelings of others.

 

What if we show love to others but they do not return that same love to us? Although it causes us pain and hurt when others don’t love us back, God wants us to follow through on our part. When we stand before Jesus someday, we will have to give an account of our own life and our own deeds. When He asks us if we loved others, then we will be able to say, with confidence and boldness, “YES”!

 

  

Love — Showing Honor and Respect

 

In our society, in families, in many marriages, at the workplace, and even in the Body of Christ today, there is a lack of showing honor and respect to one another. The world has promoted a spirit of independence and self-will to the point where the predominant attitude is one of self-centeredness with little regard for others.

 

Agape love involves showing honor and respect to others. Our society is puzzled by all the broken relationships that abound. Yet how can relationships survive, or be joyful and peaceful, if we show dishonor and disrespect to one another? Honor and respect is one of the most important keys to successful, lasting relationships.

 

In the Webster’s Dictionary, “honor” is defined as: high regard or great respect given, received or enjoyed; dignity; repute; esteem; to treat with deference and courtesy.

 

The word “respect” is defined as: to feel or show honor or esteem for; hold in high regard; to consider or treat with deference or dutiful regard; to show consideration for; courteous regard; to avoid intruding upon (such as respecting others’ boundaries and feelings).

 

The term “deference” is defined as: a yielding in opinion, judgment or wishes; courteous regard or respect; honor.

 

In certain passages of the Bible, some translators use the word “respect” while other translations use the term “reverence”. Reverence is similar to respect, except has deeper meaning. Reverence implies deep respect together with love. To revere is to have high esteem or awe for; to venerate. Reverence suggests a regarding with great respect, affection, honor and deference.

 

In 1 Peter 3:7, Peter said for husbands to dwell with their wives according to knowledge (know her, know what she likes and doesn’t like, know what is important to her, know her heart). Then Peter says to give honor to the wife as the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers be not hindered. The Greek word and definition of “honor” in this verse is timee (Strong’s New Testament #5092). It means: “honor which belongs or is shown to one; to value and esteem to the highest degree; to hold in high dignity; to esteem as very precious; of high price.”

 

So Peter is saying to husbands to show honor to their wives, to value and esteem them to the highest degree, to hold in high dignity, to esteem as very precious and of high price.

 

The word to wives in Ephesians 5:33 does not just tell wives to respect their husbands, but to reverence their husbands. Reverence implies deep respect together with love, affection, honor and deference (yieldedness, submissiveness).

 

The Bible commands us to honor our parents. The Greek word for “honor” in the verses that refer to honoring parents is timao (Strong’s New Testament #5091). It is defined as: “to prize; to fix a valuation upon; to revere; to venerate; to honor.”

 

In Matthew 15:3-7, some of the Pharisees and Scribes provoked Jesus by asking Him why His disciples transgress the tradition of the elders by not washing their hands when they eat bread. Jesus then asked them why their traditions violate the direct commandments of God. Many of the religious leaders failed to honor their parents by not caring or providing for them in their older age, when they had means to do so. Resources that should have been used to take care of their parents was instead given away to be used for other purposes.

 

Peter said to honor kings and those in authority (1 Peter 2:17). Romans 13:7 tells us to give honor to whom honor is due. First Timothy 5:17 says that the elders who rule well should be counted worthy to double honor, especially those who labor in the Word and doctrine.

 

Romans 12:10 tells believers in the Body of Christ to be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love, in honor preferring one another. In the Greek, to prefer one another means to show deference to one another or to outdo one another in showing honor.

 

Paul said to show special honor to widows in 1 Timothy 5:3.

 

Peter commanded us in 1 Peter 2:17 to show honor and respect to all people.

 

Most importantly, we are to honor the Lord. We show Him love and honor in our personal relationship with Him — not only in words but also in our hearts and in our deeds. We also show the Lord love and honor by the way we treat other people. Jesus said, “And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me” (Matthew 25:40).

 

Love – Edifying Others

 

The theme of this teaching is “love edifies others”.

 

Romans 14:19 says, “Therefore, let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.”

 

Romans 15:2 says, “Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, for his edification.”

 

The words “edify” or “edification” comes from the Greek word oikodome (or oikodomeo in some instances).

 

The definition means: “to build up (as in the idea of building a structure); a builder; an edifice; an architect; to construct; to confirm; confirmation; to establish; to be a house builder; to rebuild; to build up from the foundation; to restore or repair.”

 

The Thayer’s Greek Lexicon adds the following definition: “To promote growth in Christian wisdom, affection, grace, virtue, holiness and blessedness.”

 

The opposite of edification is to tear down, to damage, to destroy, to injure, to harm, to break, to weaken, to put others down, to discourage or depress, to destabilize, to undermine, to demoralize, to cut away by unkind remarks or actions, to crush, to deflate, to diminish or reduce, to shred into pieces, to belittle, to humiliate, to criticize, to disdain, to be negative.

 

While I was involved in the choir at my former church, the Director of the Worship Department used to engrain into us what she called the “3 E’s”:  1) Edify  2) Esteem  3) Encourage. Before she became a worship pastor, she used to be a school teacher and taught music to children.  When the children would begin to pick on each other like kids do, she would write on the chalk board:

 E E E

 

The children knew what the 3 E’s meant. She also engrained the 3 E’s into those of us in the choir who are adults. Adults can be like children except in grown-up bodies. Adults can be far more cruel than children in biting each other with unkind words and deeds. She and her husband have been, and continue to be, godly examples of showing love to others.

 

To edify others is to esteem them, to build them up, to compliment them, to honor them, to show them respect and admiration, to show high regard for, to encourage, to strengthen, to be supportive, to value and prize, to give others a boost, to uplift, to build others’ faith and confidence.

 

Edification is positive and uplifting. When we edify others, their faith is increased and our faith is increased as well. Faith is always filled with hope and positive expectation. When you edify others, you will feel edified yourself.

 

The Apostle Paul said that prophecy is for the edification of the Body of Christ. First Corinthians 14:3 says, “But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men.”

 

The five-fold offices of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers are for the purpose of equipping the saints for the work of the ministry and for the edifying of the Body of Christ (Ephesians 4:11-12).

 

Paul goes on to further state in Ephesians 4:16 that the Body of Christ grows and builds itself up in love as each individual part of the Body works properly.

 

Edification involves the tongue and the power of words. The tongue has the power of death and life (Proverbs 18:21). The tongue can be used to speak words which promote death and destruction, and the tongue can be used to speak words of life which promote edification.

 

Ephesians 4:29 says, “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 tells us to let our speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that we may know how we ought to answer every man. Psalms 45:2 says, “You are the most excellent of men and Your lips (words) have been anointed with grace.”

 

Paul said in 1 Corinthians 8:1 that knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.

 

Edification is more concerned about the well-being of others. First Corinthians 10:23-24 says, “All things are lawful for me, but not all things edify. Let no one seek his own, but each one the other’s well-being.” To edify others is to NOT be a stumbling block to them.

 

Paul says in 1 Timothy 1:4 to not get caught up in doctrinal issues that cause disputes rather than godly edification which is in faith. In this situation, it was not just a matter of difference in doctrinal interpretation of Scripture. There were teachers at the church of Ephesus who were teaching unauthenticated doctrine that were mere speculations — myths and legends. The focus was on endless genealogies. This teaching was not edifying and produced controversies instead of promoting the Gospel and godliness, which is of faith and edification.

 

Believers are admonished to edify one another. First Thessalonians 5:11 says, “Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.”

 

Remember the “3 E’s”:

 

Edify others

Esteem others

Encourage others

 

 

 

Love – Pride/Humility

 

This message is about the subject of pride.  Pride is at the root of all the reasons why love is often not demonstrated to the degree that it should be.

 

As an example, a common scenario is arguments and strife in relationships. Proverbs 13:10a says, “Pride only breeds quarrels …”

 

In 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, love is defined as:

·      Being patient

·      Being kind

·      Not being jealous

·      Not being arrogant

·      Not being rude

·      Not behaving unbecoming

·      Not selfish

·      Not demanding one’s own way

·      Not easily angered

·      Does not keep a record of wrongs

·      Does not rejoice in unrighteousness

·      Rejoices in truth

·      Bears all things

·      Protects

·      Believes for the best

·      Trusts

·      Hopes

·      Perseveres

·      Faithful

 

Pride is at the root of impatience. Impatience says, “Unless everything is done in my time table then “I get upset and show my agitation” … “I am the most important person around here and get irritated with delays or if I have to listen to what someone says longer than I wish to” … “However, when I have something to say, I expect others to give me their undivided attention.”

 

Pride is at the root of self-centeredness and demanding one’s own way. Self-absorption says, “My needs and wants are more important than everyone else’s needs and wants” … “My time is more valuable than other people’s time.”

 

Pride is at the root of being easily provoked and displaying temper tantrums. Anger says, “I am the most important person and I have rights to react, yell, scream or tell someone off if they irritate me for any reason or do not do what I want them to do. I can treat someone any way I wish.”

 

Anger is all about control and control is backed by pride. Control says, “I want it my own way and I will do whatever it takes to get my own way” … “I’m going to call the shots.”

 

Everyone experiences anger, but the Bible says to be angry and sin not (Ephesians 4:26). In many situations, a person who is easily angered will often be abusive verbally, mentally, emotionally and even physically. Abusers are very wounded, insecure individuals and they hurt other people. Abusers are very self-centered and usually blame others around them for their problems. When they are confronted, they are often even more explosive. They may apologize and say that it will never happen again, but the abuse usually continues until the victim stands up to him/her. Deliverance for the abuser comes when they humble themselves before God and before man, take responsibility for their life and actions, and seek for professional help.

 

Pride is at the root of keeping a record of offenses, holding grudges and being unforgiving. Pride refuses to let go of the wrongs committed against them. To forgive is an act of humility. To forgive is to grant grace, mercy and pardon even when you feel like the person who offended you does not deserve it. Sometimes it is hard to forgive because we feel like the other person is being let off the hook and getting by with what they did. Yet God has forgiven us of sin after sin, and has shown us abundant grace and mercy when we did not deserve it. To the extent we show mercy is the extent we will receive mercy.

 

Pride is believing that you are better than others, and others are lower than you.

 

Pride is more concerned about appearances (How will I look?) than in what is the right thing to do.

 

Pride causes barriers between denominations, races, and economic status.

 

First Corinthians 13:4-5, in the Amplified Version, says that agape love is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily, it is not conceited and it is not inflated.

 

Proverbs 11:2 says, “When pride comes, then comes shame; but with the lowly is wisdom. Proverbs 16:18 says, “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” Proverbs 29:23 says, “A man’s pride shall bring him low; but honor shall uphold the humble in spirit.”

 

To love others is to have a spirit of humility. First Peter 5:5-6 says, “Yes, all of you clothe yourselves with humility, to serve one another. For God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.”

 

Humility is defined in the Greek as: “having a humble opinion of oneself, modest, lowliness of mind.” (Low self-esteem is not humility.)

 

Philippians 2:3-4 instructs us to let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.”

 

In Verses 5-11 of Philippians 2, we are reminded of Christ’s example of humility:

5    Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus

6    Who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God.

7    But made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.

8    And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.

9    Therefore, God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name.

10  That at the Name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth.

11  And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

 

 

Quotes About Love by Dr. Leroy Thompson

 

Love never fails. If things are failing in your life, then check your love level.

 

Love is not just an attribute of God, God IS love. God is not faith, but He is full of faith. God is not mercy, but He is merciful. However, God IS love. That’s the essence of who He is.

 

There are no limitations to those who walk in God’s love.

 

The revelation of all possibilities is in the understanding of my love identity.

 

The Church has been in the state of reason and emotion for a long time. They feel good, and may run around, yet don’t have the success or victory rate you should have if you got the revelation of His love. When you’re in a real fight, you have to know how to use the Sword of the Spirit and be led by the Spirit. The Church needs to go to the reality of who you really are in Christ and what you have on the inside of you and be able to use the Sword of the Spirit accurately and skillfully.

 

Ephesians 3:14-21 – Love Identity. How do I access or activate this kind of love identity?

 

Love is the highest you can go in the realm of the Spirit. Love is higher than faith, and even higher than the blood of Jesus. Love is God and God sent the Blood. Love is higher than the Gifts of the Spirit.

 

Love is the most excellent way.

 

God is love and love is God’s whole identity. When you love God, you got all the promises of God, from Genesis to Revelation. You have the fullness of God.

 

Love makes you more than a conqueror. Romans 8:20. Anything defeating me is only temporary.

 

Ephesians 3 (prayer Paul prayed for inner strength to be bold, strong, victorious, joyful).

 

Romans 5 — you can be in the greatest battle. We glory in tribulation also, knowing that tribulation worketh patience, and patience experience, and experience hope. And hope makes not ashamed because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts. “Hearts” is referring to your soul. The love of God is shed abroad in my mind and emotions, and I am conscious of the fact that God will never leave me or forsake me.

 

God’s love is shed abroad in your emotions. Say “touch me Lord Jesus”, and He will.

 

God can shed abroad His love into your imagination. Can you imagine what would happen to your life?

 

Romans 12:2 cannot work without love. You cannot fully renew the mind with just the Word, but you need the love of God to renew the mind. The perfect will of God means love.

 

The love of God is shed abroad in our will.

 

Perfect love casts out fear. 2 Timothy 1:7. The power, love and a sound mind cannot work without love.

 

Isaiah 41:10 “Fear not, be not dismayed, for I am thy God. I will strengthen thee. I will help thee. I will uphold thee with My right hand.”

 

Ephesians 3:14, inner man is your soul.

 

The root of the Spirit is love. Everything else is the fruit.

 

When you get out of love, you get into the flesh and into pride.

 

Your first works is love.

 

Love is the master of the Spirit world.

 

When you are all upset and walk out of love, you are not as powerful as you could be.

 

The love walk is not an emotional love walk. It’s triumphant.

 

Satan downplays love because he knows how powerful it is. This world demonstrates weak love.

 

Be rooted and grounded in love.

 

Love surpasses knowledge.

 

Love surpasses facts. I’ve got something in me to stir up miracles.

 

Love is supernatural.

 

Your life will be transformed by God’s love inside of you.

 

You have to be strengthened in your inner man by God’s love, before you qualify for the next verse. Ephesians 3:20 “Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us …”

 

The richest attribute of God’s Glory is love.

 

Galations 5:6 says faith which works by love.

 

Love is the ground wire.

 

The stagnation and frustration you’ve been going through is over. Love makes grace show up.

 

You will be stronger than you’ve ever been in your life, because of a deeper love relationship between you and God.

 

Love will never let you down, even when you make a mistake.

 

“The past won’t last.” Whatever you need wiped out can be wiped out by the power of love.

 

Love gives. “For God so loved the world that He gave …”

 

“God so loved the world” … that’s you and me. He loves us just the way we are. He just wants you to surrender yourself to Him and receive Him as Savior and Lord.

 

The Baptism of the Holy Spirit involves tongues, but is a baptism of the love of God.

 

Works don’t replace love.

 

Return to your first love and first work (Revelation 2:1-7).

 

All limitations can be crossed by love.

 

We are called in Christ to make marks which cannot be erased, and love makes those marks.

 

Because of love I will live and declare the glory of the Lord.

 

Love brings results to our prayers and faith.

 

“Lord, spread Your love through my imagination.”

 

Love heals the broken heart.

 

There is no greater love on earth than being a grandparent.

 

Love can be stirred up. Hebrews 10:24 “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works.”

 

Love is greater than faith. Though I have all faith to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing (1 Corinthians 13:2).

 

Love is greater than tongues and prophesying. Without love, I am as a clanging symbol and am nothing (1 Corinthians 13:1-2).

 

Love is greater than giving away all your money and goods to the poor, or giving yourself as a martyr, for without love it profits me nothing (1 Corinthians 13:3).

 

Chapter 21

Other Fruits of the Spirit

 

 

Joy of the Lord!

 

Joy is the English word for Strong’s #5479, chara. Chara is defined as “calm delight; cheerfulness”. It is translated as “exceedingly joyful, joyous, gladness”. It is derived from #5463 chairo, meaning “calmly happy or well off; cheerful”. It is translated in the New Testament as “joy”, “gladness”, and “rejoice greatly”.

 

There are more than 28 other Greek and Hebrew words for joy. Definitions include: exultation; elation; jump for joy; leap for joy; skip for joy; to sympathetically move (as of a quickening of a fetus); to evangelize (announce the good news of the Gospel); be in a good frame of mind; to boast in the Lord; to glory in the Lord; grace; favor; pleasure; to give thanks; blithesomeness; glee; mirth; to be bright; delight; shout of joy; singing; triumph; jubilee; blowing of trumpets; acclamation of joy; sound an alarm; battle-cry; to split the ears with sound; make a joyful noise; to spin around; dancing; to break out in joyful sound; goodness; beauty; welfare; to laugh; to play; to be or make well; happy; be content; successful; to make sweet.

 

The Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary defines joy as the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune, or by the prospect of possessing what one desires; a state of happiness or bliss.

 

Joy is produced by the Holy Spirit (Acts 2; Romans 14:17, 15:13; Galations 5:22-23; 1 Thessalonians 1:6)

 

Joy is second on the list of the Spirit-filled life. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, JOY, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, self-control.” Galatians 5:22-23

 

Joy is associated with hope and faith (Romans 15:13; Galations 5:22-23). The Holy Spirit is seen as the One giving the joy, hope and faith.

 

Joy is also associated with peace and righteousness in the Holy Ghost (Romans 14:17, 15:13).

 

The Bible says to rejoice that your name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, and Heaven is your eternal home! Luke 10:20

 

Jesus despised the shame of the cross, because He focused His mind on the joy of the future that was set before Him. Hebrews 12:2

 

The Apostle John had no greater joy than to know that his spiritual children walked in truth (3 John 4).

 

In order to remain joyful, keep company with other joyful and positive people. One way to build your praise to God is to associate with others who are praisers.

 

Don’t spend a lot of time with gloomy people, except to offer encouragement, prayer and to cheer them up. Be careful of someone who is in a pit of gloom and despair, lest he or she pull you in the pit with them. Sometimes you have to turn people over to God and let Him heal them.

 

Unforgiveness and bitterness will hinder the force of joy from operating in your life (Mark 11:23-26; Ephesians 4:31; Hebrews 12:15).

 

The Lord gives us the oil of joy or gladness for mourning (Isaiah 61). God turns our mourning into dancing (Psalms 30:11). The oil of joy and gladness breaks yokes and burdens off of people, because of the anointing (Isaiah 10:27).

 

Joy and rejoicing are daily choices. The Apostle Paul said, “Rejoice in the Lord always; I will say it again, Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4).

 

Joy is cheerfully expectant. Joy contains expectation of a prosperous and successful future.

 

Joy can get you through any hardships, trials, grief or sorrow (1 Peter 4:12-14). Most prosperous and successful people are joyful people, because they are positive minded and are thankful individuals.

 

The joy of the Lord is your strength (Nehemiah 8:10). The Lord says to prepare a feast and celebrate, and sorrow no more. The word for “strength” in this verse means a defense, a rock, fortitude. It also means “staying power”.

 

Joy strengthens a person spiritually, emotionally, mentally, relationally, financially and physically.

 

Science has proven that laughter is therapy to the soul and entire body, including the bones (Proverbs 15:30, 16:24, 17:22). Proverbs 17:22 says, “A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.

 

The Holy Spirit is likened to new wine, and wine is also associated with joy and laughter. The Bible says that wine makes merry (Ecclesiastes 10:19). The Bible teaches us to drink wine in moderation to avoid drunkenness. Ephesians 5:18 encourages us to be filled with the Holy Spirit. It says, “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.”

 

In Acts 2, the Jews at Jerusalem thought that those who were filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke in other tongues were drunk, but the Galileans were sober and praising God in languages they had never learned, and speaking eloquently as the Spirit gave them utterance.

 

When you are filled with the Holy Spirit, you will speak to yourself in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 5:19-20).

 

Joyful people make a habit of singing quite often. Singing expresses joy and brings joy. Some people need to get their song back.

 

Joyful people are thankful individuals. They express their gratitude to the Lord and others. They may keep a gratitude journal, and write down a few things each day that they are grateful for.

 

When a person expresses gratitude, then breakthroughs come to their life and dreams come to pass, and then the person has even more joy than they had before. Gratefulness expresses joy, but also generates more joy.

 

Father God enjoys answering our prayers when we ask in Jesus’ Name, because it brings us fullness of joy! John 16:24 says, “Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.”

 

Joyful people make the commandments of God their delight, and they prosper. Psalms 1:1-3 says, “But his delight is in the law of the Lord and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”

 

Joyful people never run dry, and they are strong and stable. They are connected to Jesus (the Source), and they are like that tree planted by the rivers of water that brings forth its fruit in season, and his leaf shall not wither and whatever he does will prosper (Psalms 1).

 

Joyful people have a spring in their step and tend to be more agile.

 

May your morning confession be: “This is the day that the Lord has made; I will rejoice and be glad in it!” (Psalms 118:24).

 

God promises that those who delight themselves in the Lord, they shall receive the desires of their heart (Psalms 37:4), which brings much joy. Joyful people delight in doing God’s will (Psalms 40:8).

 

There are enemies to joy: anxiety, worry, depression, hopelessness, gloom, fear, rage, anger, resentment, negativity, insecurity, faithlessness, impatience, bitterness, unforgiveness, offense, hatred, ingratitude, abuse, a victim mentality, lack of peace, exhaustion, loneliness, confusion, pride, judgmental attitude, strife, arguing, discord, family breakdown, complaining, murmuring, doubt, sadness, grief, mourning, sin, disobedience to God’s commands, dwelling on past mistakes, spiritual darkness, frowns, downcast appearance.

 

There are friends that dwell with joy: love, peace, rest, strength, endurance, forbearance, patience, meekness, calm delight, pleasure, positive expectation, hope, faith, grace, gentleness, humility, high praise, worship, gratitude, gladness, cheerfulness, rejoicing, laughter, dancing, singing, playing musical instruments, positive thoughts and attitude, Presence of God, Glory of God, Anointing of God, the fruit of the Spirit, smiles, countenance is radiant, dwelling in the light of God.

 

Happiness is based on circumstances and mood swings, whereas joy is fixed in the heart. We can feel joy on both good and bad days and in any situation.

 

Joy wins battles. When Judah’s army, at the leading of King Jehoshaphat, began to sing songs in the beauty of holiness, and go out before the army praising the Lord, God set up ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab and Mount Seir and they became confused and turned on each other and self-slaughtered (2 Chronicles 20:21–24).

 

Joy is associated with rest. When you have entered God’s Sabbath Rest, there is joy and gladness. Rest is also linked with faith and hope. As you rest, God is working, bringing the answer to pass in your life.

 

Joy is associated with believing (believing in God’s goodness, believing the Lord to answer your prayers, believing for the best outcome, believing in a bright future) – Romans 15:13.

 

Though you may not have seen Jesus in person yet, you believe and rejoice in Him, with joy unspeakable and full of glory (1 Peter 1:8).

 

The sacrifice of joy, praise and worship, is likened to the fragrant offering from the Altar of Incense in the Holy Place. Joy and praise are likened to a sweet-smelling aroma ascending to the very Throne Room of God, for which He is well pleased (Revelation 5:8-9 AMP).

 

There is joy during sufferings, trials and persecutions. Joy is what sustains you and gets you through it (Matthew 5:12; Colossians 1:24; 1 Peter 4:13).

 

Romans 5:3-5 says, “And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”

 

Joy undergirds your faith and hope. Joy also gives you the grace and endurance to go through trials with composure, knowing that hard times don’t last forever. Joy can rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory because it knows that difficult times have an expiration date. Joy gives you hope for a better future.

 

Glorify God with all your wealth, honoring Him with your very best, with every increase that comes to you. Then every dimension of your life will overflow with blessings from an uncontainable source of inner joy! Proverbs 3:9-10

 

When you rejoice and laugh by faith, you tap into true joy, and resist yielding to depression and fear. Keith Moore, www.moorelife.org .

 

Happiness is always an inside job. Be so happy that when others look at you they become happy too. Life does not have to be perfect to be wonderful.

 

Joy asks, “Who can I be a blessing to today?” Smile, for you never know how it may brighten someone’s day.

 

Psalms 27 talks about the sacrifices of joy—rejoicing in God’s goodness, mercy, grace and presence with singing, shouting, dancing, lifting up holy hands and playing musical instruments. David knew how to rejoice before the Lord with the sacrifices of joy.

 

Paul mentions joy and rejoicing 16 times in the book of Philippians. Joy must be crucially important for Paul to mention it so many times in one small epistle alone.

 

Joy is so powerful that demons have a meltdown, tremble and flee.

 

Your joy is a demonstration of the triumph of Christ.

 

Joy is associated with trusting in the Lord and rejoicing in His goodness.

 

Joy is linked with the fruit of kindness. When kindness is demonstrated in relationships, it brings joy to the relationship.

 

Joy is the best makeup. Author Unknown

 

Joy is contagious. Be a carrier and spread joy to everyone around you.

 

When Jesus Christ came into this world, He was heralded in with angelic choirs singing songs of joy, and joy was announced to the whole world.

 

Rejoice because you are a son or daughter of God!

 

Joy is found in the beauty and peace of nature, such as beautiful forests and flower gardens.

 

Psalms 126 says:

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.

3 The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.

4 Turn again our captivity, O Lord, as the streams in the south.

5 They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.

6 He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.

 

Comparison is the thief of joy.

 

God’s goodness, and any mention of His goodness, brings joy.

 

Proverbs 15:15 says, “All the days of the desponding and afflicted are made evil [by anxious thoughts and forebodings], but he who has a glad heart has a continual feast [regardless of circumstances].” AMP

 

Joy is found in a grateful heart.

 

Zephaniah 3:17 says, “The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; He will save, He will rejoice over thee with joy; He will rest in his love, He will joy over thee with singing.”

 

The body heals with play, the mind heals with laughter, and the spirit heals with joy. Author Unknown

 

The Bible instructs us in the attitude that we are to serve God. It says to serve the Lord with gladness (Psalms 100:2). Gladness is defined in the Hebrew as: glee, blithe, making merry, rejoice, joyful, to brighten up, cheerfulness, goodness, welfare, beauty, to go well with.

 

Joy is linked with waiting on the Lord. While we are waiting, God is working in the situation and we can have joy knowing that. Waiting on God also speaks of spending time soaking in God’s Presence, and in His Presence is fullness of joy and at His right hand are pleasures forevermore (Psalms 16:11).

 

Joy is connected to the thoughts you think. If you think joyful, happy, positive thoughts, then you will be filled with joy and gladness. As a man thinks in His heart, so is he (or so does he become). Proverbs 23:7

 

He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed (Proverbs 11:25).

 

The joyful person finds delight in God’s Word (Psalms 1:2), and delights to do God’s will (Psalms 40:8).

 

 “A good laugh and a long sleep are the two best cures for anything.” Irish Proverb

 

Laughter is an instant vacation. Milton Berle

 

Joy is the serious business of Heaven. C.S. Lewis

 

Joy is the settled assurance that God is in control of all of the details of your life; the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be okay; and the determined choice to praise God in all things. Kay Warren

 

When we receive miracles and answers to prayer, and dreams come to pass, it sparks joy.

 

Weeping may endure for a night (a season), but joy comes in the morning. Psalms 30:5

 

May you become filled with so much joy and happiness that it heals every part of you.

 

Joy and grieving are meant to be shared with others. Rejoice with them who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Romans 12:15

 

After Elisabeth (who was past childbearing age) gave birth to John the Baptist, her family and neighbors heard that the Lord had shown her great favor, and done wonderful things for her, and they rejoiced with her. Luke 1:58

 

A mother presses through the pains of labor, and rejoices when the baby is born and she is holding her infant in her arms.

 

There is no greater joy on earth than to be a grandparent.

 

The fear (holy reverence) of the Lord is a fountain of life. Proverbs 14:27

 

Once you have feasted on the goodness of God, nothing else will satisfy. D.A. Ovieda

 

Happy people don’t go through life collecting recognition. They go through life giving it away. Dodinsky

 

May we always have an attitude of gratitude, because thankfulness produces joy.

 

Joy and hope are interconnected. You can bubble over with hope. Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of your hope so fill you with all joy and peace in believing [through the experience of your faith] that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound and be overflowing (bubbling over) with hope.” AMP

 

Your future is as bright as the promises of God.

 

The reward ceremony in Heaven will be unlike anything we can imagine. www.DavidJeremiah.org

 

“Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Luke 15:10

 

Psalms 32:11 says, “Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you righteous; and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!” Psalms 46:4 says, “There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High.”

 

Isaiah 12:3 says, “Therefore with joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.” NKJV

 

John 10:10b says, “I (Jesus) came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).” AMP

 

Jeremiah 31:12-14 states:

12 Therefore, they shall come and sing in the height of Zion, and shall flow together to the goodness of the Lord, for wheat (Word of God), and for wine (Joy), and for oil (Anointing), and for the young of the flock and of the herd (Prosperity): and their soul shall be as a watered garden (Satiated and Green); and they shall not sorrow any more at all.

 

13 Then shall the virgin (Church) rejoice in the dance (praise and worship), both young men and old together: for I will turn their mourning into joy, and will comfort them, and make them rejoice from their sorrow.

 

14 And I will satiate the soul of the priests with fatness (Anointing), and my people shall be satisfied with my goodness, saith the Lord.

 

God restored to Joseph many times over for all the turmoil and pain he had gone through being a slave in Egypt. God turned Joseph's affliction into joy—so much to the point that when his first son was born he called him “Manassah”, meaning “He has made me to forget my toil”. He named his second son “Ephraim”, meaning “God has made me double fruitful”.

 

Psalms 34:8 says, “O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusts in Him.”

 

The Lord spoke and said, “If you only know what happens in the Spirit when you rejoice, you would rejoice every day.” www.markhankins.org

 

Joy's Multifaceted Connection: Joy is connected to: God's Presence (Psalms 16:11); God's strength (Nehemiah 8:10); God's salvation (Isaiah 12:3); the Anointing — the oil of joy (Hebrews 1:9), God's medicine (Proverbs 17:22); God's Word (Jeremiah 15:16, Psalms 119:162); and Prosperity (2 Corinthians 9:6-10, Psalms 105:37-45). www.markhankins.org

 

When we rejoice, we are acting like sons and daughters of God! Rejoicing is an act of faith. www.markhankins.org

 

Remember the words of Paul in Acts 27:25: “Cheer up…I believe God that it shall be as He told me.” When we believe God, we can cheer up! Believing and rejoicing ushers in the glory and goodness of God in our lives. www.markhankins.org

 

Look at all of the blessings of God that are connected to joy. It seems that if Satan can steal our joy, then he can damage a lot of other things in our lives. www.markhankins.org

 

Jesus sits in the heavens and laughs triumphantly (Psalms 2:4). www.markhankins.org

 

One of the characteristics of the Kingdom is joy in the Holy Ghost. www.markhankins.org

 

Joy gives you patience and staying power! It helps you to stay in a position of faith while God is working a miracle in your life, while He’s working all things together for your good (Romans 8:28)! If you rejoice while you wait for the answers to your prayers, it won’t be long until you see the answer manifest. www.markhankins.org

 

Joy is the proper protocol for entering into God’s Presence (Psalms 100). www.markhankins.org

 

If you want the Kingdom of God to break loose in your life, then joy is the supernatural battle strategy. Get full of joy and the dominion of God will break out. The faster you get happy, the faster the devil is out! www.markhankins.org

 

Faith has a beginning and faith has an end. Joy unspeakable and full of glory is the bridge between believing and receiving (1 Peter 1:8-9). www.markhankins.org

 

Rejoice that what God has promised, He is also able to perform. When you begin rejoicing, laughing, and shouting by faith, something happens in the Spirit realm and the glory finds a place to land! www.markhankins.org

 

When you go through a trial, the joy of the Lord neutralizes the pressure. www.markhankins.org

 

Laughter releases resurrection power that melts down disease. Laugh at disease, laugh at torment, laugh at lack. First John 3:8 (AMP) says, “…the reason the Son of God was made manifest (visible) was to undo (destroy, loosen, and dissolve) the works the devil [has done].” The Son of God was manifested to destroy the works of the devil, and the language of laughter will loosen and cause a meltdown of all the power of hell! Ha, ha, ha! www.markhankins.org

 

Your joy is Jesus’ joy. www.markhankins.org

 

J O Y = Jesus, Others, Yourself

 

Joy is a daily choice. Choose joy and gladness today.

 

 

Fruit of the Spirit

Peace

 

Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, PEACE, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”

 

The general internet dictionary defines peace as freedom from disturbance; quiet and tranquility; freedom from or the cessation of war or violence; harmony, concord.

 

The Merriam-Webster’s dictionary goes on to say: “freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions; harmony in personal relations; a state or period of mutual concord between governments; a pact or agreement to end hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity; to keep silent or quiet.”

 

The New Testament Greek word for “peace” is eirene (Strong’s #1515). It is defined as “prosperity, quietness, rest, set at one again.”

 

The Old Testament Hebrew word for “peace” is shalom. Shalom is more than a greeting, but it wishes a person prosperity, success and happiness.

 

The blessings of Shalom (Strong’s #7965) include:

 

·      Peace, quietness, tranquility

·      Salvation and Baptism of the Holy Spirit

·      Rest, Joy, Hope, Faith

·      Love

·      Absence of war

·      Absence of strife and contention

·      Harmonious state of the soul and mind

·      Covenant relationship with God

·      Peace in our spirit (rational intellect, the part of us that communes with God)

·      Peace in our soul (mind, will, emotions)

·      Peace with God, especially in covenant relation

·      Peace that surpasses our understanding; peace like a river

·      Unity; concord; harmony (the anointing oil flows with unity)

·      Freedom from confusion and captivity of any kind

·      The Lord looses the prisoners

·      Success and Blessings (family, children, grandchildren, houses, lands, cars, both material and non-material things)

·      Giving thanks for all your blessings

·      Prosperity; wealth; living debt free; debts cancelled

·      Satiation of God’s goodness

·      Being filled up with the Word of God

·      Possessing the promises of God

·      Completeness, Wholeness

·      Restoration; Rejuvenation; Refreshment; Relaxation; Recreation

·      Contentment

·      Friendship; Friendliness (especially friendship with God)

·      Soundness in mind and physical body; excellent health; wellness; healing

·      With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation

·      Security

·      Welfare, Happiness

·      Nothing missing and nothing broken

·      Protection; Safe (in mind, body or estate)

·      Restitution; compensation

·      To walk in favor with God and man

·      God gives His Beloved sleep

·      Days of Heaven upon earth

·      A greeting (“May it be well with you”)

·      Messianic Reign

 

Jesus took the stripes on His back for the punishment for our peace. His Blood Atonement was enough to forgive sins, give eternal life, heal our bodies, minds and emotions, bring us out of poverty and into abundance, give us peace of mind and peace in our relationships, to give us total shalom.

 

Jesus tells us in John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

 

In John 16:33 Jesus goes on to say, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

 

Because Jesus has overcome the world, we can be overcomers as well, and experience that peace in the midst of chaos in this world.

 

When we are troubled in our minds and emotions, and perplexed and distressed and full of anxiety, the peace of God will overwhelm us to the point where it surpasses our understanding. We won’t be able to understand how we could feel so much peace in the midst of the storm, but His peace is there for us without measure.

 

Philippians 4:6-8 tells us:

 

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.

 

8 For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely and lovable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them]. AMP

 

The Bible says that God is the author of peace, as opposed to confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33).

 

The Lord is referred to the God of peace (in most cases as a greeting) in Romans 1:7, 15:33, 16:20; 2 Corinthians 1:2, 13:11; Galations 1:3; Ephesians 1:2; Philippians 1:2; 1 Timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 1:2; Titus 1:4; Philemon 3; Revelation 1:4.

 

Living in peace with others, to the best of our ability, is crucially important in our Christian walk. Hebrews 12:14 says to pursue peace and holiness with all men, which without those things no one will see the Lord.

 

Our peace can be multiplied, according to 1 Peter 1:2 and 2 Peter 1:2.

 

God’s blessings and anointing rests on unity and being in peace with the brethren.

 

Psalms 133 says:

 

1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!

2 It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments;

3 As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life forevermore.

 

Ephesians 4:3 says, “Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

 

In the passage of Matthew 10:34-42, Jesus told us that He did not come to bring peace to the earth, but a sword. What does He mean by this, since He is the Prince of Peace?

 

One school of thought is that this passage means that He will have no other idols above Himself. Verses 38-39 talks about taking up your cross and following Jesus. Sometimes in family relationships, there is division because of Jesus.

 

That’s why Paul said in 1 Corinthians 7:15 that light and darkness cannot dwell in unity, and for those who are married to unbelievers to pursue peace to the best of your ability, but at the same time to be willing to let them go if they choose to leave, because God has called us to live in peace.

 

James said that where there is envy and strife, there is confusion and every demonic work (James 3:16).

 

When Jesus ministered to people in His earthly ministry, He would say, “Your faith has saved you, go in peace.” After He ministered to the woman with the issue of blood, He told her to go in peace (Mark 5:25-34). After the woman anointed His feet with precious oil, He told her to go in peace (Luke 7:44-50).

 

Romans 5:1-2 says that we have peace with God by being justified by faith. “Therefore, being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.”

 

Romans 8:6 says, “For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.”

 

Romans 14:17 tells us: “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.”

 

Peace and edification go hand in hand. Romans 14:19 “Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.”

 

Romans 15:13 says, “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.” Joy and peace go together.

 

Jesus pulled down the dividing wall of Jews and Gentiles, thus making them one body, with Jesus as the Chief Cornerstone.

 

Ephesians 2:14-22 tells us:

 

14 For He (Jesus) is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;

15 Having abolished in His flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in Himself of twain one new man, so making peace;

16 And that He might reconcile both unto God in one body by the Cross, having slain the enmity thereby:

17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.

18 For through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone.

21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:

22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit (KJV).

Ephesians 6:13-18 talks about putting on the armor of God. Verse 15 says to have your feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace.

 

The entire passage says:

 

Ephesians 6:11-18

11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

 

12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

 

13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

 

14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

 

15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

 

16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

 

17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God:

 

18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints. KJV

 

Isaiah 52:7 is a cross reference to Ephesians 6:15. It says:

 

How beautiful upon the mountains

Are the feet of him who brings good news,

Who proclaims peace,

Who brings glad tidings of good things,

Who proclaims salvation,

Who says to Zion,

“Your God reigns!” NKJV

The Gospel is the good news of peace.

 

Jesus (the Messiah) is called the “Prince of Peace” in Isaiah 9:6. It says: “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” KJV

 

Isaiah 9:7 says that His peace shall never end.

 

Jesus’ Messianic coming is 2-fold. Jesus came to earth the first time as a servant, and to place peace in the HEARTS of people and make a way by the Cross that we can have peace with the Father. You cannot have true world peace until people’s hearts are transformed. Jesus will come a second time to bring peace to this world and will reign in Jerusalem.

 

Jeremiah 33:6 prophesies:

Behold, [in the future restored Jerusalem] I will lay upon it health and healing, and I will cure them and will reveal to them the abundance of peace (prosperity, security, stability) and truth. AMP

 

Colossians 3:15 says, “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.”

 

The phrase “peace like a river” is used two times in the Old Testament. Isaiah 48:18; Isaiah 66:12.

 

Psalms 4:8 says, “I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.”

 

Psalms 29:11 says, “The Lord will give strength unto His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace.”

 

Psalms 34:14 “Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.”

 

Psalms 37:11 “But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.”

 

Psalms 37:37 “Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.”

 

Psalms 55:18 “He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle that was against me: for there were many with me.”

 

Psalms 72:7 “In his days shall the righteous flourish; and abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth.”

 

Peace and righteousness go together. Psalms 85:10 says, “Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.” Also see Isaiah 32:17, which says: “And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance forever.”

 

Psalms 119:165 says, “Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.”

 

The Bible commands us to pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

Psalms 122:6-9 says:

6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee.

7 Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces.

8 For my brethren and companions' sakes, I will now say, Peace be within thee.

9 Because of the house of the Lord our God I will seek thy good.

 

Wisdom brings peace. Proverbs 3:1-2 says, “My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments. For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.

 

More is said about how wisdom brings peace to our lives. Proverbs 3:16-18 tells us: “Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her.”

 

In James, it says that the wisdom that comes from above is peaceable, and filled with good fruit (James 3:17).

 

1 Timothy 2:2 talks about leading a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

 

Hebrews 12:11 says that no discipline seems pleasant at the time, but it yields the peaceable fruits of righteousness.

Proverbs 11:12 says that a man of understanding, or wisdom, holds his peace. He is not quarrelsome.

 

Proverbs 16:7 says that when a man's ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.

 

If you want peace of mind, then keep your thoughts on the Lord and His Word. Isaiah 26:3 says, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”

 

Isaiah 26:12 says that God will ordain peace for us.

 

Isaiah 54:13 declares, “And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children.”

 

We are led by the Spirit through inward peace, and we go out in joy (Isaiah 55:12).

 

Isaiah 57:21 says that there is no peace for those who are wicked. Their life is always filled with trouble and strife.

 

Jeremiah 29:11-13 gives us hope:

11 For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome.

 

12 Then you will call upon Me, and you will come and pray to Me, and I will hear and heed you.

 

13 Then you will seek Me, inquire for, and require Me [as a vital necessity] and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. AMP

 

 

 

Fruit of the Spirit

Patience

 

Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, PATIENCE, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” NIV

 

In other versions, such as the KJV, NKJV and AMP, the word “longsuffering” is used for patience.

 

Patience and longsuffering is forbearance and having an even temper.

 

Patience is not determined by how long you wait, but your attitude while waiting.

 

Patience is linked with rejoicing always, giving thanks, hope, suffering, tribulation and continual prayer (Romans 12:12, 1 Thessalonians 5:14-18).

 

Romans 12:12 tells us to rejoice and exult in hope; be steadfast and patient in suffering and tribulation; be constant in prayer. AMP

 

We are commanded to be patient with everyone around us, although that may be difficult at times (1 Thessalonians 5:14).

 

James tells us to be patient for the appearing of the Lord. James 5:7-8 says, “Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.” KJV

 

A bishop must be a very patient individual to meet the qualifications for the office of the bishop (1 Timothy 3:1-7).

 

In 2 Timothy 2:24-25, the servant of the Lord must not strive (get into heated debates); but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth. KJV

 

The Apostle Paul was a very patient and meek man (2 Corinthians 6:3-10, 12:12). This passage shows the marks of true apostles.

 

Jesus and the Father are our ultimate examples of showing us patience and kindness. When we have sin in our lives they are very patient with us, desiring to work with us to help us overcome and repent.

 

Jesus was very patient with mankind when He went to the Cross. He endured all the mockery, the shame, the unfair trial, the beatings, scourging, the abuse, the crucifixion so that we could have eternal life.

 

Love is patient (1 Corinthians 13:4).

 

The words “patient” or “longsuffering” in 1 Corinthians 13:4 (and 1 Thessalonians 5:14 and James 5:7-8) is the Greek word makrothumeo (NT:3114). It is defined as to be long-spirited; forbearance; long enduring temper.

 

Other Greek words for “patient” and “longsuffering” include:

anexikakos (NT:420) = enduring of ill; forbearance (2 Timothy 2:24)

epieikes (NT:1933) = mild, gentle (1 Timothy 3:3)

makrothumia (NT:3115) = longanimity, forbearance, fortitude (Hebrews 6:12 and James 5:10)

hupomeno (NT:5278) = to stay under; to undergo; bear trials; have fortitude; persevere (Romans 12:12)

hupomone (NT:5281) = cheerful (or hopeful) endurance; constancy; patient continuance (waiting) (Romans 2:7, 1 Timothy 6:11, Hebrews 10:36, Hebrews 12:1, James 1:3)

 

Patience is associated with kindness (to be mild and gentle).

 

Patience is associated with cheerful and hopeful endurance and constancy.

 

When the soil of our heart is good ground, then we will bear fruit with patience. “But the ones that fell on the good ground are those who, having heard the Word with a noble and good heart, keep it and bear fruit with patience” (Luke 8:15).

 

By your patience possess your souls (Luke 21:19). NKJV

Romans 5:3-5 says, “And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope: 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.” KJV

 

Romans 8:25 “But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.” KJV

 

Romans 15:4 “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.” KJV

 

Patience and consolation are linked together (Romans 15:5).

 

In Colossians 1:11, patience, longsuffering and joyfulness is interconnected.

 

In 1 Thessalonians 1:3, it refers to the patience one must have to be in the ministry. There were those who were commended for being patient during persecutions (2 Thessalonians 1:4; 2 Timothy 3:10-12).

 

Patience is mentioned along with love, faith, righteousness, godliness and meekness (1 Timothy 6:11).

 

In Titus 2:2, the older men are to be examples to the younger generation of those who walk in patience.

 

Hebrews 6:12 says, “That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” KJV

 

Faith and patience are power twins. They function together. There are some promises of God that take a while to manifest, and we have need of faith and patience to see our answers materialize.

 

“Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.” Hebrews 10:35-36 (KJV)

 

Hebrews 12:1-2 says, “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, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith. KJV

 

James 1:3-4 says, “Be assured and understand that the trial and proving of your faith bring out endurance and steadfastness and patience. 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.” AMP

 

Job was one of the most patient men alive, and he came out of his trial with twice as much as he had before. James 5:11 says, “You know how we call those blessed (happy) who were steadfast [who endured]. You have heard of the endurance of Job, and you have seen the Lord's [purpose and how He richly blessed him in the] end, inasmuch as the Lord is full of pity and compassion and tenderness and mercy.” AMP

 

2 Peter 1:5-9 refers to the nine (9) Graces of the Spirit filled life:

 

·      Put on diligence

·      Develop faith

·      Develop virtue

·      Develop knowledge

·      Develop self-control

·      Develop patience

·      Develop godliness

·      Develop brotherly affection

·      Develop Christian love.

 

In the letter to the Church of Ephesus in Revelation 2:2-3, they were commended for their patience and endurance.

 

In the letter to the Church of Thyatira in Revelation 2:19, they were commended for their patience, service and faith.

 

In the letter to the Church of Philadelphia in Revelation 3:10, they were commended for their patience and perseverance, and were given a promise to be kept from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world.

 

In Revelation 13:10 and 14:12, it talks about the patience and faith of the saints. Some would be martyrs.

 

Romans 2:4 says that God is longsuffering towards us … “Or despisest thou the riches of His goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?” KJV

 

We are to walk with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:2-3 KJV

 

Colossians 3:12-15 tells us:

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.

14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.

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. KJV

 

2 Timothy 4:2 “Preach the Word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” KJV

 

During the days of Noah, while the Ark was being prepared, God demonstrated longsuffering towards that generation for hundreds of years before the flood finally came. The door to the Gospel is opened right now and God has issued everyone an invitation to be saved. A time will come, though, when that window will be closed. Today is the day of salvation.

 

2 Peter 3:9 “The lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

 

Greek Theologian, Rick Renner, says that longsuffering is patient restraint of anger. https://renner.org/longsuffering-and-gentleness/  

 

Rick Renner also says that other possible interpretive translations of the Greek word makrothumia in First Corinthians 13:4 could include:

 

 

“Love is not short-tempered or easily angered.…”

“Love does not quickly blow its top, but it is patient as it waits for others.…”

“Love is not irritable and impatient but is willing to wait a long time for someone to change.…”

“Love is determined to wait until the other person finally comes around….”

“Love passionately burns for others and is willing to wait as long as is necessary.…”

 

Makrothumia is the equivalent of our English idiom “having a long fuse”; a patient person can take a lot of provocation before reacting.

 

As the phrase “fruit of the Spirit” implies, we can only have patience when the Holy Spirit works through us.

 

You need to walk in joy because joy keeps your attitude straight while you exercise your patience. You need to walk in peace in order to walk in patience because you are trusting God to come through for you and the measure of your peace is the measure of your trust. You can be patient because your trust is in God who answers prayer and delivers you from all tribulations.

 

“The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger and great in mercy” (Psalms 145:8). That’s the way He expects us to be!

 

“He who is slow to wrath has great understanding, but he who is impulsive exalts folly” (Proverbs 14:29). “A wrathful man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger allays contention” (Proverbs 15:18). “The discretion of a man makes him slow to anger, and his glory is to overlook a transgression” (Proverbs 19:11).

 

Impatience, annoyance, anger, intolerance, worry, fear, and distrust are the opposites of patience. These prevent us from seeing, as our Lord wants us to see, that all things will work for His good in the end (Romans 8:28).

 

Patience will allow us to manage anger and problems, and to wait on God's timing. Patience will allow us to forgive (Romans 5:8), as Christ forgave us and has patience with us. Patience will allow us to endure and go on, even when we do not feel like it.

 

Allow the Potter to put you on His wheel and form you in His time, into His likeness.

 

Perseverance is patience in action.

 

Patience is essentially “waiting with grace.”

 

Patience is waiting quietly.

 

Patience is waiting eagerly.

 

Patience is waiting until the end.

 

Patience is waiting expectantly.

 

Patience is waiting joyfully.

 

Every God-given vision will become real if we will only have patience.

 

It’s in the valley that we tend to give up and faint. “But those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles. They shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31). 

 

Patience keeps you steady until the answer from God comes.

 

We know from Philippians 1:6 that God will finish what he starts. And the Psalmist encourages us to keep asking God for our request even while we’re waiting for Him to bring it about.

 

“In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly” (Psalms 5:3).

 

 

 

Fruit of the Spirit

Kindness

 

There are three main Greek words for kindness (chrestotes, chrestos, and philadelphia):

 

NT:5544 chrestotes; from NT:5543

It is defined as usefulness, i.e. moral excellence (in character or demeanor). Translated in the KJV as gentleness, good (-ness), kindness.

 

NT:5543; chrestos is derived from NT:5530 chraomai

Chrestos is defined as: employed, i.e. (by implication) useful (in manner or morals): KJV - better, easy, good (-ness), gracious, kind.

 

NT:5360 philadelphia; from NT:5361; fraternal affection: KJV - brotherly love (kindness), love of the brethren.

 

Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit—the resulting character of someone who is allowing the Holy Spirit to develop maturity in his or her life. The fifth characteristic, kindness, is called “gentleness” in the King James Version.

 

Kindness is goodness in action, sweetness of disposition, gentleness in dealing with others, benevolence, affability. The word describes the ability to act for the welfare of those taxing your patience. The Holy Spirit removes abrasive qualities from the character of one under His control.

 

Greek Scholar Rick Renner has noted that when the word chrestotes is applied to interpersonal relationships, it conveys the idea of being adaptable to others. Rather than harshly require everyone else to adapt to his own needs and desires, when chrestotes is working in a believer, he seeks to become adaptable to the needs of those who are around him. (Sparkling Gems from the Greek, Rick Renner)

 

Kindness is associated with love, goodness, mercy, graciousness, gentleness, usefulness, thoughtfulness and being sensitive to the needs and feelings of others around you.

 

The opposite of kindness is cruelty, meanness, rudeness, sharpness, abuse, harshness, brutality, malice, spitefulness, vindictiveness, mercilessness, viciousness, ruthlessness and callousness. All of these negative traits are works of the flesh, and are wicked in God’s sight.

 

Kindness is a spiritual law (Proverbs 31:26).

 

The law of kindness is on the tongue of the virtuous person. Kindness involves not only your actions, but the words that come out of your mouth, and the tone of voice used. Kindness is very careful in what you say and how you say it, so as to not purposely offend or hurt someone else, or stir up wrath.

 

Kindness is associated with wisdom, because it takes wisdom to know the right words to speak in season to those who are weary and need encouragement.

 

One of the traits the virtuous woman is known for is her wisdom, as well as the law of kindness coming from her lips.

 

Love is kind (1 Corinthians 13:4). Love is the highest law. One of the marks of walking in the love of God is by the kindness you show to others.

 

To walk in love is to also dwell in light and have life. The opposite is true if you do not walk in love. The result will be dwelling in darkness and death of some type. When there is a lack of kindness demonstrated in a relationship, it brings death to the relationship.

 

To be kind to others is to be helpful.

 

Kindness is involved with benevolence and charity for humanity. Kind-hearted people are very generous with their finances and resources to help mankind.

 

Kindness is linked to compassion and sympathy.

 

Kindness is thoughtfulness.

 

Kindness is showing consideration and courtesy. Kindness is showing regard for others.

 

Kindness is necessary for showing diplomacy.

 

Kindness is demonstrating good manners and being polite.

 

Kindness is showing patience.

 

Kindness knows how to manage anger and direct it in the right way, so as to not say damaging things to others in a fit of rage.

 

Kind people know how to build others up. They live by the three E’s: Edify others, Esteem others, and Encourage others.

 

Kind people are also sweet people.

 

Kind people show respect to others, as well as reverence the Lord.

 

Kind individuals demonstrate a spirit of humility.

 

Kind people are more soft-hearted.

 

To show kindness to someone else is to show favor. It is especially noble of a kind person to show favor to an inferior, by stooping down to help raise him or her up.

 

The Lord is known, in Nehemiah 9:17, as a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and who forsakes not.

 

Psalms 117:2a says, “For His merciful kindness is great toward us.”

 

Isaiah 54:8 says that God’s kindness and mercy is everlasting.

 

Isaiah 54:10 says, “For the mountains shall depart and the hills be removed, but My kindness shall not depart from you, nor shall My covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has mercy on you.

 

Colossians 3:12-15 states: “Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.”

 

Titus 3:4-7 says, “But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.”

 

Ephesians 4:29-32 says, “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.

 

2 Peter 1:8-10 lists the nine Graces of the Holy Spirit:

 

·      Diligence

·      Faith

·      Virtue

·      Knowledge

·      Self-control

·      Perseverance

·      Godliness

·      Brotherly kindness

·      Love

 

2 Peter 1:8-10 “For if these things (9 Graces of the Holy Spirit) are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins. Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble.” NKJV

 

You can be kind to someone without having to agree on everything.

 

Proverbs 16:24 says, “Pleasant (kind) words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the bones.” NKJV

 

Proverbs 15:1 says, “A soft (kind) answer turns away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.”

 

To display kindness to others is to show them honor.

 

Kindness means to follow the Golden Rule. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you (Matthew 7:12).

 

Kindness means to treat others the way God has treated you. He has shown you mercy and kindness your whole life.

 

If you want to have good relationships, then cultivate kindness in your life.

 

Joy is linked with the fruit of kindness. When kindness is demonstrated in relationships, it brings joy to the relationship. Also, when you’ve done a kind deed, the joy of the Lord fills your soul.

 

Proverbs 20:28 describes qualities God wants in a leader: “Mercy and truth preserve the king, and by lovingkindness he upholds his throne.”

 

Kindness is based on the mind-set described in Philippians 2:3-4: “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.”

 

Kindness is humbly giving of ourselves in love and mercy to others who may not be able to give anything back, who sometimes don’t deserve it, and who frequently don’t thank us for it.

 

Kindness means a way of thinking that leads to doing thoughtful deeds for others.

 

Kindness when speaking to others means to be soft-spoken rather than harsh.

 

Kindness is not selfish, but is sacrificial in helping others.

 

Some examples of kindness include: giving people compliments (not flattery) and meaning it with your heart; open doors for someone; smile; say hello; help carry something for someone; mowing someone’s lawn who is ill or elderly; sit and talk with people who do not want to be alone; cook someone dinner; giving to a person in need; changing someone’s flat tire.

 

An act of kindness lifts people’s burdens.

 

Dr. Barry Corey says this of kindness: “It’s the natural outcome of the Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives. We exhale kindness after we inhale what’s been breathed into us by the Spirit.”

 

Worldly niceness glosses over sin, but the kindness of God leads us to repentance (Romans 2:4).

 

People have seasons in their lives when they are facing battles and they need individuals in their life who will be kind, good and gentle to them.

 

Plant seeds of kindness and you will reap a spiritual harvest of blessings.

 

Kindness is contagious. Be a carrier, and spread kindness everywhere you go.

 

No matter how small or big the act of kindness may be, it makes a HUGE difference in the person or people who received your act of kindness, in the environment you live, your workplace, and every place you are involved.

 

Kindness is associated with the wisdom that is from above, which is pure, peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits (James 3:17).

 

Joseph is a great example of kindness, goodness, and reconciliation. It was in his power to take revenge on his brothers, but goodness and kindness won out.

 

Kind words proceed from a pure and good heart. Jesus received the tongue of the learned from His Father so He could refresh the weary soul with His Word (Isaiah 50:4). Such tongues are in great demand for helping and comforting. Kind words are precious.

 

King David said that God’s gentleness (kindness) has made him great (Psalms 18:35).

 

Kindness is the characteristic that led God to provide salvation for all of mankind—that’s us (Titus 3:4-5; Romans 2:4, 11:22).

 

Kindness leads God to give us green pastures, quiet waters, and the restoration of our souls when we're weary (Psalm 23:2-3).

 

It is God's tender care that makes Him want to gather us under His wings, to protect us and keep us close to Him (Psalm 17:8, 36:7, 61:4; Matthew 23:37).

 

God expressed kindness when He provided for Elijah and the widow of Zarephath during a drought—and He showed more kindness later when He raised the widow's only son from the dead (1 Kings 17:8-24).

 

When Sarah exiled Hagar and Ishmael, God gave the outcasts kindness in the form of water and hope (Genesis 21:9-21).

 

On multiple occasions, kindness induced Jesus to stop what He was doing and help others in need (Mark 6:34, 7:29, 10:46-52).

 

Kindness leads the Good Shepherd to rescue us when we stray (Luke 15:3-7). In kindness He “gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart; He gently leads those that have young” (Isaiah 40:11).

 

When we exhibit the kindness of God, we are tender, benevolent, and useful to others.

 

Every kind action, and every kind word will have the flavor of grace in it.

 

Kindness has the power to soften hearts.

 

It's especially important for kindness to be accompanied by goodness. That's because kindness without goodness can become tolerant of sin — just as goodness without kindness can be harsh and legalistic. We show the fruit of the Spirit only as we develop these qualities together.

 

Boaz is an example of a person who showed tremendous kindness to both Ruth and Naomi. He married Ruth and redeemed her out of poverty and childlessness, and he provided for Naomi for the rest of her life.

 

The Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37 was a very kind person who displayed compassion. He also used his own resources to help the person.

 

The quality of kindness will go hand in hand with the quality of love. Once the Holy Spirit starts to transmit His love into you, the quality of kindness will follow right along with it. It will then become much easier for you to be able to be kind to others once the love of God starts to flow more into your personality.

 

You cannot help but be more kind to others if God’s love is flowing through you. This is why the quality of love has to be the main quality that you really concentrate on getting more of from the Holy Spirit. Once the love of God starts to flow and operate through you to touch others, many of the other fruits of the Holy Spirit will then start to follow right after it in domino fashion.

 

In 2 Samuel 9:7, David said to Mephibosheth, “Do not fear, for I will surely show you kindness for Jonathan your father's sake, and will restore to you all the land of Saul your grandfather; and you shall eat bread at my table continually.” David and Jonathan were best friends, and Jonathan was killed in battle along with King Saul. When David became king, he sought out to show kindness to Jonathan’s offspring.

 

This world is full of harshness. This world is full of unkindness. When people experience a kind gesture, they are refreshed by it, and they are recharged by it. Philemon 7 says, “For I have derived great joy and comfort and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints [who are your fellow Christians] have been cheered and refreshed through you, [my] brother” (AMP). Philemon showered the brethren with kindness and, by so doing, he had a refreshing and a restoring effect.

 

Kindness is compassion in action.

 

Kindness is a sincere desire for the happiness of others; goodness is the activity calculated to advance that happiness.

 

Kindness is the inner disposition, created by the Holy Spirit, that causes us to be sensitive to the needs of others, whether physical, emotional or spiritual. Goodness is kindness in action—words and deeds.

 

Kindness is gentle and mild, and not harsh.

 

God’s kindness draws us toward Him. His love, care, and grace makes us want to be around Him more. And when we’re around Him more, we will understand our need for Him.

 

As we allow the Holy Spirit to grow more of His kindness and goodness in our lives, we will draw others to want to know this kind and gracious God.

 

We imitate God’s kindness by loving our enemies. Jesus said, “Love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for He is kind to the ungrateful and the evil” (Luke 6:35). Our kindness reflects the heart of our Father. “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).

 

No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted. Aesop

 

Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle. Plato

 

Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are endless. Mother Teresa

 

Kindness is a language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see. Mark Twain

 

You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late. Ralph Waldo Emerson

 

Constant kindness can accomplish much. As the sun makes ice melt, kindness could cause misunderstanding, mistrust, and hostility to evaporate. Albert Schweitzer

 

You catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar. Father of Kirk H. Neely

 

Kind people have no guile in their heart, or ulterior motives. They have a pure heart, and the Bible promises that the pure in heart shall see God (Matthew 5:8).

 

Are your words kind (gentle), or do they have a sharpness?

 

In kindness, there is no slander.

 

Kindness is a matter of building up, not tearing down others.

 

Kindness has a ripple effect. When one person is kind, kindness tends to pass forward to others.

 

Being kind to others is one way we express our devotion to Christ. In Matthew 25, in the parable of the Last Judgment, Jesus said that we are to give to those who are hungry, to those who are thirsty, to those who are strangers, to those who are naked, to those who are sick, to those who are in prison. Then he adds, “As much as you did it unto the least of these, My brethren, you did it unto Me” (Matthew 25:40).

 

Perhaps the greatest expression of our kindness is being willing to forgive others.

 

When we are kind to our enemies, it is like heaping burning coals on their head (Romans 12:20).

 

Kindness has pure intentions.

 

Kindness is given freely.

 

Kindness leaves a lasting legacy.

 

 

Fruit of the Spirit

Goodness

 

Galatians 5:22-23 (TLB) says, “But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, He will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, GOODNESS, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”

 

The Webster’s Dictionary definition for goodness is:

 

·      The state or quality of being good

·      Moral excellence; virtue

·      Kindly feeling, kindness, generosity, joy in being good

·      The best part of anything; Essence; Strength

·      General character recognized in quality or conduct

 

Greek words for “good” include:

 

Agathos (Strong’s #18) = “good” in its character or constitution, is beneficial in its effect; (a) it is used of things physical, e.g., a tree, Matthew 7:17; ground, Luke 8:8; (b) in a moral sense, frequently of persons and things. God is essentially, absolutely and consummately “good”.

 

Kalos (Strong’s #2570) = denotes that which is intrinsically “good”, and so, “goodly, fair, beautiful,” as (a) of that which is well adapted to its circumstances or ends, e.g., fruit, Matthew 3:10; a tree, 12:33; ground, 13:8,23; fish, 13:48; the Law, Romans 7:16; 1 Timothy 1:8; every creature of God, 1 Timothy 4:4; a faithful minister of Christ and the doctrine he teaches, 4:6; (b) of that which is ethically good, right, noble, honorable.

 

Chrestos (Strong’s #5543) = That which is pleasant, kindly, gracious, good.

 

Chrestotes (Strong’s #5544) = Denotes “goodness” in the sense of what is upright, righteous, kindness of heart or act, gentleness, goodness expressing itself through actions, grace, tenderness, compassion. This Greek word does not express God’s severity when it comes to His goodness.

 

Agathosune (Strong’s #19) = Goodness expressed more from Christ’s sterner qualities and hatred of evil, such as cleansing the temple.

 

A good person is not only kind and compassionate, but also has an intolerance for sin and evil (and may thus come across as stern).

 

King Hezekiah is an example of the fruit of goodness. When he took the throne in Judah, the temple of God was in disrepair, and idols were set up across the land. So Hezekiah made things right.

 

He reinstated the priests of God (2 Chronicles 29:5); he brought people from all Israel to celebrate Passover (2 Chronicles 30:5); he removed the idols (2 Chronicles 31:1). The Bible says that Hezekiah “did what was good, right and true before the LORD his God,” and everything he did, “he did with all his heart and prospered” (2 Chronicles 31:20–21). This is goodness: understanding what is right and making it happen.

 

Goodness speaks to our character and the desire to be more like God. The word “goodness” means to be like God. As we remain in Christ, and the fruit of kindness continues to grow in us, our nature will change more and more to look like Jesus. Philippians 2:13 says, “For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him.”

 

The Bible talks about the goodness of God as part of His character. It’s not something He does; it’s who He is. As we continue to become new creations, becoming more like Christ, goodness can become more of a character trait in us, too.

 

Instead of being motivated to do good because we want accolades or rewards, we do good because we’ve allowed God to change our hearts. We choose obedience to God and bring honor to him. We choose to be kind and to serve others because we understand all that God has given to us.

 

Second Thessalonians 1:11-12 says, “So we keep on praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of His call. May He give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do. Then the name of our Lord Jesus will be honored because of the way you live, and you will be honored along with Him. This is all made possible because of the grace of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ.”

 

Goodness is a heartfelt, moral quality of desiring and being of benefit to others according to God's will. It is a moral quality because goodness can have no part in any kind of evil. Thus, its motivations and actions must be morally pure. Goodness must be good.

 

Kindness is a category and demonstration of goodness. It is goodness without any harshness only gentleness, while goodness itself is the larger quality and behavior and encompasses both the ability to be soft and kind, as well as, the ability to be tough, stern, and firm when good calls for it. For example, we see Christ's goodness in His sternness when cleansing the temple and denouncing of scribes and Pharisees because God's good purpose was best served by confronting these evils. The moral nature of God which revealed in His moral law defines the standard of goodness.

 

Psalms 34:8 “O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusts in him.”

 

God’s goodness is His Glory. Exodus 33:19 “And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the Name of the Lord before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy.”

 

Exodus 34:6-7 tells us: “And the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed, The Lord, The Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth generation.”

 

Psalms 23:6 “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

 

As we patiently wait on God, we see God’s goodness in our lives. Psalms 27:13-14 says, “I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.”

 

Psalms 31:19 “Oh how great is Thy goodness, which Thou hast laid up for them that fear Thee; which Thou hast wrought for them that trust in Thee before the sons of men!”

 

Psalms 65:4 “Blessed is the man You choose, and cause to approach You, that he may dwell in Your courts. We shall be satisfied with the goodness of Your house, of Your holy temple.”

 

God demonstrates His goodness by revealing Himself to us as Provider and bringing prosperity into our lives. Psalms 65:11 “You crown the year with Your goodness, and Your paths drip with abundance.”

 

Psalms 107:8-9 “Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men! For He satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with goodness.”

 

Jeremiah 31:12 “Therefore they shall come and sing in the height of Zion, streaming to the goodness of the Lord — for wheat (Word of God) and new wine (Joy) and oil (Anointing), for the young of the flock and the herd (milk and meat of the Word); their souls shall be like a well-watered garden (satiated with His Presence, rivers of living water flowing), and they shall sorrow no more at all.”

 

Jeremiah 31:14 “I will satiate the soul of the priests with abundance, and My people shall be satisfied with My goodness, says the Lord.”

 

The goodness of God leads us to repentance. Romans 2:4 “Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?”

 

Romans 11:22 “Notice how God is both kind and severe. He is very hard on those who disobey, but very good to you if you continue to love and trust Him.” TLB

 

Psalms 37:3-5 “Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass.”

 

Psalms 37:23-24 “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the Lord upholds him with His hand.”

 

Psalms 84:11 “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord will give grace and glory; no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.”

 

Psalms 86:5 “For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You.”

 

Psalms 100:4-5 “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations.”

 

Psalms 103:2-5

2 Bless the Lord, O my soul,

And forget not all His benefits:

3 Who forgives all your iniquities,

Who heals all your diseases,

4 Who redeems your life from destruction,

Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,

5 Who satisfies your mouth with good things,

So that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.

 

Psalms 107:1-2 “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so!”

 

Psalms 112:5-6 “A good man deals graciously and lends; he will guide his affairs with discretion. Surely he will never be shaken.”

 

Psalms 135:3 “Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good; sing praises to His name, for it is pleasant.”

 

Psalms 147:1 “Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for it is pleasant, and praise is beautiful.”

 

Proverbs 3:27 “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due,

When it is in the power of your hand to do so.”

 

Proverbs 12:2 “A good man obtains favor from the Lord, but a man of wicked intentions He will condemn.”

 

Proverbs 13:22 “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, but the wealth of the sinner is stored up for the righteous.”

 

Proverbs 15:30 “A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.” NIV

 

Proverbs 17:22 “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” NIV

 

Proverbs 18:22 “He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.” NIV

 

Proverbs 25:25 “Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land.” NIV

 

Proverbs 31:10-12

10 A wife of noble character who can find?

She is worth far more than rubies.

11 Her husband has full confidence in her

and lacks nothing of value.

12 She brings him good, not harm,

all the days of her life.

NIV

 

Isaiah 61:1 “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor.” NIV

 

Lamentations 3:25-26 “The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.” NIV

 

Matthew 5:16 “In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” NIV

 

Matthew 7:9-12

9  Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone?

10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?

11 If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!

12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. NIV

 

Matthew 7:17-20

17 Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.

18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.

19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.

20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them. NIV

 

Matthew 12:35-37

35 The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.

36 But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken.

37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned. NIV

 

The seed is the Word of God. The Bible talks about the condition of people’s heart (or ground or soil). For those who have good soil, the Word produces in their lives (at least 30-fold, but then up to 100-fold). Matthew 13:8 “Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop — a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” NIV

 

In the parable of the talents given to each servant (according to their ability), the ones who were given 5 and 10 invested the talents and came back with even more talents. They were commended as being good and faithful servants. This parable speaks to our lives today. At the end of our life we should have more talents than when we first began. We want to hear the Master say, “Well done, My good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your Master's happiness!’”

 

In Acts 11:24, Barnabas was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord. He mentored Paul after he was converted.

 

Romans 12:21 “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” NIV

 

Romans 15:2 “Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.” NIV

 

Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” NIV

 

Philippians 1:6 “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” NIV

 

Colossians 1:10 “That you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.” NKJV

 

In 1 Timothy 1:19, it mentions having a good conscience before God. Also see Hebrews 13:18 and 1 Peter 3:16.

 

In 1 Timothy 6:12, it says to fight the good fight of faith. This is a good kind of fight. In 2 Timothy 4:7, the Apostle Paul said that he had fought the good fight of faith, and that he had completed his race.

 

In Titus 2:14, we are to be zealous of good works.

 

Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by faith, the elders obtained a good report, and so do we. Faith always has a good report. Hebrews 11:1-2

 

James 1:17 “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” NKJV

 

There are individual sins, according to James 4:17. “Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.”

 

Acts 10:38 “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with Him.”

 

 

Fruit of the Spirit

Faithfulness

 

Galatians 5:22-23 says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, FAITHFULNESS, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” NKJV

 

The Greek word for “faithful” or “faithfulness” is pistos (Strong’s #4103). It is defined as: trustworthy, trustful, believing, sure, true. The word pistos is derived from the Greek word peitho (Strong’s #3982), which means “to convince by argument, to assent to evidence or authority, to rely on by inward certainty.”

 

The King James Version uses the word “faith” in Galations 5:22-23 rather than faithfulness. The Greek word for “faith” is pistis (Strong’s #4102). The definition includes: from NT:3982; persuasion, i.e. credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstractly, constancy in such profession; by extension, the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself. Also, translated as fidelity, assurance, belief, believe.

 

1 John 1:9 tells us “If we confess our sins, He (Jesus) is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” KJV

 

In Revelation 1:5 Jesus is called the “Faithful Witness”, and in Revelation 3:14 He is called the “Faithful and True Witness”.

 

In Revelation 19:11, He that sat upon the white horse is called “Faithful and True”, and a few verses later it reveals that Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords, and the Faithful and True is Him.

 

In the parable of the talents, we are admonished to be like those who invested and multiplied their talents and presented it to the Master at the end of their lives on earth, and received rewards. Matthew 25:21 says, “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.”

 

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. Luke 16:10

 

If you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven? And if you are not faithful with other people's money, why should you be entrusted with money of your own? Luke 16:11-12

 

Luke 19:16-17 is about the man who was given talents, and he invested and gained even more talents. The first man reported a tremendous gain-ten times as much as the original amount! “Fine!” the king exclaimed. “You are a good man. You have been faithful with the little I entrusted to you, and as your reward, you shall be governor of ten cities.” TLB

 

God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. 1 Corinthians 1:9

 

Timothy was Paul’s beloved and faithful son in the Lord. 1 Corinthians 4:17

 

1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”

 

Galatians 3:9 says, “So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.”

 

Tychicus was a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord in the early church. Ephesians 6:21

 

Others in the early church who were noted as being faithful servants include the brethren at Colosse; Epaphras; Onesimus and Sylvanus. Colossians 1:2,7; 4:7,9; 1 Peter 5:12

 

1 Thessalonians 5:24 says, “Faithful is He Who is calling you [to Himself] and utterly trustworthy, and He will also do it [fulfill His call by hallowing and keeping you].” AMP

 

2 Thessalonians 3:3 says, “Yet the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen [you] and set you on a firm foundation and guard you from the evil [one].” AMP  The KJV says that He will stablish you.

 

God places people into the ministry who He counts as faithful (1 Timothy 1:12).

 

1 Timothy 3:11 tells us that deacons’ wives must be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things. NKJV

 

2 Timothy 2:2 mentions that those apt to teach are faithful ministers.

 

2 Timothy 2:13 says, “If we are faithless, He remains faithful.”

 

A bishop must have faithful children, not accused of dissipation or insubordination. Titus 1:5-9

 

The Word of God is considered to be faithful, and has the power to transform people. Titus 1:9

 

Hebrews 2:17-18 “Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted.”

 

Hebrews 3:1-6

1 Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, Christ Jesus,

2 who was faithful to Him who appointed Him, as Moses also was faithful in all His house.

3 For this One has been counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as He who built the house has more honor than the house.

4 For every house is built by someone, but He who built all things is God.

5 And Moses indeed was faithful in all His house as a servant, for a testimony of those things which would be spoken afterward, 

6 but Christ as a Son over His own house, whose house we are if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm to the end.

 

Hebrews 10:23 “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.”

 

Hebrews 11:11 “By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised.”

 

God is faithful to keep His covenant and to fulfill all of His promises in our lives. We just have to believe and receive.

 

God will give the crown of life to those who are faithful until death. Revelation 2:10

 

In Revelation 2:13 Antipas was noted as a faithful martyr.

 

Revelation 17:14 “These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful.”

 

Revelation 21:5 Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.”

 

Numbers 12:6-8

6 And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the Lord will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream.

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?

 

Deuteronomy 7:9 says, “Know therefore that the Lord thy God, He is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love Him and keep His commandments to a thousand generations.”

 

Samuel was considered to be a faithful priest, and obedient to the Lord. 1 Samuel 2:35.

 

David was considered to be faithful and favored in all of Saul’s house. 1 Samuel 22:14

 

Nehemiah gave the charge of Jerusalem to his brother Hanani, and to Hananiah the leader of the citadel, for Hananiah was a faithful man and feared God more than many. Nehemiah 7:2

 

Nehemiah appointed treasurers who were faithful men. Nehemiah 13:13

 

Psalms 31:23 says, “For the Lord preserves the faithful.”

 

God’s eyes are upon the faithful of the land. Psalms 101:6

 

All of the Lord’s commands and testimonies are faithful. Psalms 119:86,138

 

Proverbs 11:13 tells us: “A talebearer reveals secrets, but he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter.”

 

Proverbs 13:17 says, “A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a faithful ambassador brings health.”

 

A faithful witness does not lie, but a false witness will utter lies. Proverbs 14:5

 

Faithful people are rare treasures. Proverbs 20:6 says, “Many a man proclaims his own loving-kindness and goodness, but a faithful man who can find?”

 

Proverbs 25:13 says, “Like the cold of snow [brought from the mountains] in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to those who send him; for he refreshes the life of his masters.”

 

Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are lavish and deceitful. Proverbs 27:6

 

A faithful man shall abound with blessings, but he who makes haste to be rich [at any cost] shall not go unpunished. Proverbs 28:20

 

In Isaiah 1:26, Jerusalem is called “the city of righteousness” and “the faithful city”.

 

Your mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens; Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds. Psalms 36:5

 

I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever; with my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations. Psalms 89:1

 

The Lord shall be praised in the congregation of the saints for His faithfulness. Psalms 89:5

 

The Lord’s lovingkindness is with us every morning, and His faithfulness at night. Psalms 92:2

 

The Lord’s faithfulness is for all generations. Psalms 119:90

 

Lamentations 3:21-23 says:

21 This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope.

22 Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed,

Because His compassions fail not.

23 They are new every morning;

Great is Your faithfulness.

 

Faithfulness comes from a place of trust and loyalty.

 

Faithfulness is trustworthiness and reliability.

 

If referring to the faithfulness of God or Jesus, it refers to steadfastness, honesty, firmness, and God's utter dependability based on His unchanging character. If we mean human faithfulness, it refers to our steady allegiance to God and our trust in Him.

 

Pastor Kris Belfils (www.wordpress.com) says the following about faithfulness:

 

“A faithful person knows what God has put in their heart, and even though many times they feel like quitting, they don’t give up.

 

A faithful person is committed to doing whatever God tells them to do no matter what it costs them personally.

 

A faithful person sees something all the way through to the end.

 

A faithful person understands that no matter where they may go to church they won’t like everything that happens. Stay where God has placed you. The way we grow is to stay planted in one place.

 

A faithful person arrives at their commitments early or at least on time. A foolish person is constantly late.

 

A faithful person is someone we can depend on — someone who shows up where they say they will be at the time they say they will be there, someone whom you can count on to do something they say they will do for you. Be a faithful person!

 

If you want to be used by God, or if you are being used by God and want to be used by God in a greater way, then always remember this: God only promotes faithful men and women. God promotes those who have proven themselves to be faithful. Then, when you prove yourself to be faithful in one area or level, God will promote you to another level.”

 

 

 

Fruit of the Spirit

Meekness

 

There are two Greek words for meekness (praiotes and prautes):

 

NT:4236 praiotes (prah-ot'-ace); from NT:4235; gentleness, by implication, humility.

 

NT:4240 prautes (prah-oo'-tace); from NT:4239; mildness, i.e. (by implication) humility.

 

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines meek as:

·      Enduring injury with patience and without resentment.

·      Submissive

·      Not violent

 

Meekness is not weakness, but strength under control.

 

Meekness also is stated in the Thesaurus as: modest, compliant, quiet, lowly, tame, disciplined, cultivated, friendly, approachable, obedient, peaceful, refined, educated, developed, sophisticated, cultured, nurturer, encourager, helper, plowed (soft and pliable heart, stony heart removed), polished, distinguished, gracious, humble, moderate, reasonable, gentle, kind, mellow, benign, easy-going, calm, pleasant, self-controlled, nice, thoughtful, discreet, uncomplicated, simple.

 

Jesus is the ultimate example of a man with a meek spirit. Matthew 11:29-30 says, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.”

 

The first time Jesus came to this earth as King, He came riding on a colt, being very meek and humble (Matthew 21:5). When He comes again the second time, He will come as the Mighty Warrior riding on a white stallion (Revelation 19:11-16).

 

Moses was the meekest human upon the face of the earth ever recorded in Scripture (Numbers 12:3).

 

The meek shall inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5).

 

Peter admonishes the women to not let adornment be merely outward, but also the inner incorruptible beauty of a meek and quiet spirit, which is precious in God’s sight (1 Peter 3:4). To have a meek spirit is considered to be incorruptible beauty. Natural beauty fades away, but inner beauty is lasting.

 

The meek shall eat and be satisfied. They shall praise the Lord. They diligently seek for, inquire of, and require Him as their greatest need (Psalms 22:26).

 

The meek He will guide in judgment (knowing and doing what is right), and the meek will He teach His ways (Psalms 25:9).

 

The meek are not only acquainted with the acts of God, but also with the ways of God.

 

The meek have a teachable spirit.

 

The meek delight themselves in the abundance of peace (Psalms 37:11). The meek are peace lovers.

 

The Lord lifts up the meek, but the wicked He casts down to the ground (Psalms 147:6).

 

The Lord takes pleasure in His people. He beautifies the meek with salvation (Psalms 149:4).

 

To get born again, you must have a meek and humble spirit in order to acknowledge that you are lost, are a sinner, and need a Savior— and to confess that Jesus is Lord.

 

The meek are joyful individuals. They increase their joy in the Lord and rejoice in the Holy One of Israel (Isaiah 29:19).

 

Jesus said that the Spirit of the Lord was upon Him, to preach good tidings to the meek (Isaiah 61:1).

 

When the meek of the earth seek the Lord, and His righteousness, they are hidden from God’s judgment (Zephaniah 2:3).

 

Meekness is associated with righteousness (Psalms 45:4; Zephaniah 2:3; 1 Timothy 6:11).

 

Meekness is also linked with love, gentleness and longsuffering (1 Corinthians 4:21; Galations 5:22-23; Ephesians 4:2; Colossians 3:12; 1 Timothy 6:11).

 

When leaders have to correct someone, they are not to come with a rod, but in love and a spirit of meekness (1 Corinthians 4:21).

 

Galatians 6:1 says, “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.”

 

Colossians 3:12-13 tells us: “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.”

 

We are commanded to pursue meekness in 1 Timothy 6:11.

 

The servant of the Lord must not strive, debate or argue with people over doctrines or Scriptures; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, showing meekness to those who oppose them. 2 Timothy 2:24-25

 

James 3:13-18 states:

13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth.

15 This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic.

16 For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.

17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.

18 Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. NKJV

 

1 Peter 3:15-16 says, “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience.

 

Rick Renner, Greek theologian, says: “The Greek word for “meekness” here does not mean weakness, but rather it has to do with humility. When you have humility you have a teachable spirit and you esteem and regard others more highly than yourself. You are humble toward God and man. You do not promote yourself, but you exalt the Lord in everything.

 

When you are humble you are teachable. You receive God’s Word for your own life and allow it to discipline and correct you. You hear the Word and you do it. When you are humble you allow the Holy Spirit to lead, guide and teach you without excuses or rebellion. You obey the Spirit instantly and precisely. You conduct your life in the way that the Word and the Lord leads you to.

 

Meekness is strength with a tender touch.

 

Meekness includes voluntarily “submitting to one another” (Ephesians 5:21). In a long passage, Peter spoke of the importance of submission of all kinds—Christians toward government (1 Peter 2:13), servants toward masters (1 Peter 2:18), Christ’s example of submitting to His tormentors (1 Peter 2:21-25) and wives toward their husbands (1 Peter 3:1).

 

Meekness:

·      Makes a person “savable” (Psalms 149:4)

·      Makes a person “teachable” (Psalms 25:9; James 1:21) – changeable!

·      Makes a person “useable” – God cannot use somebody who is not soft.

·      Makes a person “blessable” (Matthew 5:5) Meekness is the soil of joy.

 

Meekness enables a person to bear patiently those insults and injuries he receives at the hand of others. It makes him ready to accept instruction from the least of the saints. It allows him to endure provocation without being inflamed by it. He remains cool when others become heated. Meek people seek no private revenge; they leave that to God's sense of justice while they seek to remain true in their calling and meet God's standards.

The meek are among those so favored that they will share in Jesus' inheritance of the earth.

 

In the Greek language, the word prautes (“meekness”) conveys the idea of a high and noble ideal to be aspired to in one’s life. Although an injurious situation may normally produce a rash or angry outburst, a meek person is controlled by kindness, gentleness, mildness, or even friendliness.

 

The word “meekness” pictures a strong-willed person who has learned to submit his will to a higher authority. He isn’t weak; he is controlled. He may in fact possess a strong will and a powerful character; he may be a person who has his own opinion. But this person has learned the secret of submitting to those who are over him. Thus, he is one who knows how to bring his will under control. In rare instances, the word prautes (“meekness”) was used to describe wild animals that had become tame because it correctly conveyed the idea of a wild, fierce will under control.

 

This means when the Spirit is producing meekness in your life, you are controlled even in difficult circumstances. Rather than fly into a rage and throw a temper tantrum, you are able to remain silent and keep your emotions and temper under control. If you find yourself in a situation that you fiercely believe is wrong, you are still able to stay silent until the appropriate moment to speak or until you have been asked for your opinion. You know how to control yourself and your emotions.

 

In addition to these meanings, the word “meekness” was also used in a medical sense to denote soothing medication to calm the angry mind. A meek person doesn’t project the countenance of one who is offended, upset, angry, or reactive to insults or injuries. Instead, he is so gentle and mild in his response that he becomes soothing medicine for the angry or upset soul, or for a troublesome or unsettling situation.

 

So take a moment to examine the way you respond to insults, injuries, or volatile situations. Do you find that you are often a contributor to a heated and potentially explosive atmosphere? Or does your presence bring peace into the midst of the conflict? When others say or do something that could offend you, do you quickly retort with a harsh answer, or are you able to control your emotions and temper, remaining silent until a more appropriate time to speak?”

 

Rick Renner, www.renner.org/meekness-and-temperance  says,

 

Steps to developing meekness:

·      Have a teachable spirit

·      Be submissive to the will of God

·      Be considerate to others and committed to unity

 

 

 

Fruit of the Spirit

Self-Control

 

Galatians 5:22-23 says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, SELF-CONTROL.” NKJV

 

The King James Version uses the word “temperance” for self-control.

 

Temperance is defined in the Strong’s Greek Concordance as: NT:1466 egkrateia “self-control or continence”; from NT:1468 egkrates “strong in a thing (masterful); i.e. (figuratively and reflexively) self-controlled in appetite, etc; temperate.”

 

Some synonyms for “temperance” include: abstinence, self-restraint, sobriety, soberness, moderation, self-denial, self-discipline, self-control, limit, curb, restriction, balance, reasonableness.

 

The Bible warns of drunkenness or intoxication from drinking excessive wine (Ephesians 5:18; 1 Peter 4:3). However, just a little bit is good for the stomach (1 Timothy 5:23).

 

Jesus condemned the Pharisees for having an appearance of righteousness, but were guilty of gluttony and self-indulgence, as well as even worse things (Matthew 23:25). They were likened to cups that were washed on the outside, but on the inside were unclean.

 

Greek Theologian Rick Renner says the following about temperance (from the online devotional of the fruit of the Spirit – meekness and temperance www.renner.org/meekness-and-temperance

 

“The word “temperance” comes from the Greek words en and kratos. The word en means in, and the word kratos is the Greek word for power. When compounded into one word, these two Greek words form the word enkrateia, which literally means in control and denotes power over one’s self; hence, it is often translated as the word “self-control.” It suggests the control or restraint of one’s passions, appetites, and desires.

 

Just as a meek individual can control his attitude, a person with temperance has power over his appetites, physical urges, passions, and desires. Because the Holy Spirit has produced temperance in his life, he is able to say no to overeating, no to overindulging in fleshly activities, no to any excesses in the physical realm. A person with temperance maintains a life of moderation and control. The word enkrateia — “temperance” — could be thus translated as restraint, moderation, discipline, balance, temperance, or self-control.

 

You can see how opposite temperance is to the works of the flesh. If the flesh is allowed to have its way, it will over-worry, overwork, overeat, overindulge, and literally run itself to death. But when a person is controlled by the Holy Spirit, God’s Spirit produces in him a discipline over the physical realm that helps him sustain his physical condition, stay in good health, remain free from sin, and live a life that is moderate and balanced.”

 

Rick Renner goes on to talk about financial temperance in his online devotional. www.renner.org/devotionals/temperance

 

“The ability to exercise self-restraint (enkrateia) is absolutely crucial in all arenas of your life, including your personal finances, diet and physical exercise, productivity at work, or any other area where discipline is required in order to progress. However, because so many believers struggle with self-control in the realm of finances, I want to address this specific issue. If you will allow the Holy Spirit to work in this very important area of your life, I know He will help you become financially temperate and very prosperous as a result.

 

Managing your personal finances in a fiscally responsible manner is an essential part of being a person through whom God can work effectively. By doing so, you remain free from the bondage of unnecessary, frivolous debt and thus are able to pursue your calling without the hindrance and distraction of crushing financial obligations to creditors slowing you down. However, if you repeatedly succumb to your flesh and use your credit card to purchase items you don’t need and can’t afford, you will inevitably end up swamped in debt and financially ruined.

 

The Holy Spirit wants to help you be temperate in the realm of your finances, as well as in every other realm. So once you’ve made a commitment to exercise self-control (enkrateia) and stay debt-free, know that with His help and by His grace, you can stick to your commitment!

 

If you’ll listen to the Holy Spirit, He’ll help you put together a plan to exercise temperance in your life. If you’ll stick with His plan, He will lead you to a place of glorious financial freedom and will help you bring discipline and self-control to every other area of your life. When you get to this place, you’ll never want to go back! Denise and I have learned firsthand that the fruit of temperance not only provides freedom — it gives peace! I’m praying for you to make the decision to let the Holy Spirit develop this fruit in your life in a greater measure than ever before — starting today!”

 

 

 

Chapter 22

Biblical Colors

 

Here is a list of Biblical meanings of colors (as found in Moses' Tabernacle, the colors of gems in the breastplate of the Ephod, and other Scriptures throughout the Bible).

 

Blue = Heavenly, sky, Divinity, God, revelation, base or foundation of God’s Throne (made of sapphire – Exodus 24:10), river of life, robe of the high priest, Presence (Shekinah) of God, angels (especially the cherubim). Blue was the main color used in the Tabernacle, Ephod, Veil and Curtains. Sapphire is the stone for the tribe of Simeon, and Simeon means: “hearing, to hear intelligently with implication of attention and obedience”.

 

Purple = Amethyst (tribe of Benjamin – “son of my right hand”), Royalty, Kingly, Majesty, Prosperity, Anointing (color of purple/red grapes to make wine, and wine speaks of the Anointing and joy). Gospel of Matthew with Jesus portrayed as King of the Jews; one of the colors of the High Priest’s robe; one of the colors of the Ephod; purple used in the Tabernacle for the Veil, Curtains, Gate and Door Hangings.

 

Red = Lion of Judah (sardius gemstone), royalty, kingly, majesty, authority, power, Blood of Jesus, redemption through Jesus' Blood, a cleansed conscience by the Blood of the Lamb. Red used in the Ephod, Veil, Curtains, Gate and Door Hangings of the Tabernacle, as well as the roof of ram’s skins dyed red.

 

Green = Thriving, flourishing, healthy, healing, vibrant, life, satiation, Throne of God (emerald), the Glory of God, peacefulness, rest (He causes me to lie down in green pastures, He restores my soul). Emerald is the stone for the tribe of Zebulon, meaning “dwelling”. The territory of Zebulon was fertile soil.

 

Brown = the color of wood and wood speaks of humanity; earthly; dried out; barren.

 

White = Purity, cleansing, righteousness, Bride of Christ, sanctification, blameless, virtuous.

 

Yellow = This color is not specifically mentioned in the Bible, but believed by many Bible teachers to refer to the mind, soul, illumination and enlightenment. Yellow is a color of light, like the sunshine.

 

It takes the Word of God to renew the mind, and Psalms 119:130 says that the entrance of God's Word brings light and understanding.

 

The Urim and Thummim were stones used in the Old Testament to determine the will of God on matters because the only thing man had was carnal understanding (only a select few, such as the office of the prophets, priests and kings, had the Holy Spirit). Depending on a yes or no answer, the stones would light up like a yellowish/white light. After the casting of lots in choosing Matthias to replace Judas Iscariot, and when the Holy Spirit was poured out on the Day of Pentecost in Acts 2, the Urim and Thummim were no longer necessary, or ever mentioned again in Scripture, because now all believers have access to being filled with the Holy Spirit and hearing His Voice.

 

The gemstone topaz is close to the color yellow. Topaz is the stone for the tribe of Issachar. This tribe was known for having understanding of the times and seasons of God.

 

Amber = the Glory of God (Ezekiel 1); the Son of Man (Jesus) in Ezekiel 1 and Revelation 1-2; also associated with the seraphims who have the appearance of fire. Honor; Royalty; Wealth; Of the highest refining standard and greatest worth.

 

Colors of Fire = Fire is a mixture of oranges/yellows/red. The hottest flame is blue and green. Speaks of the Holy Spirit, the Glory of God, sanctification, purging the dross, refinement, purification, the seraphim, the wheels within the wheels (a type of cherubim or living creatures mentioned in Ezekiel who travel at tremendous speeds in circular motions and have the appearance of fire).

 

Silver = Redemption, a vessel of honor (although less purified than gold). A silver cord ran along the top of the fence of the Tabernacle.

 

Gold = Heavenly, Divinity, a vessel of honor, eternal, covenant, cherubim (guarding the Ark in the Holy of Holies), golden lampstand (Seven-branched Menorah), Ark of the Covenant overlaid with gold, Mercy Seat made of solid gold.

 

Brass = Judgment (brazen altar); of this earth and under the law of sin and corruption; brass tarnishes quickly and has to be polished often to be restored.

 

Crystal = Transparent, reflecting every color of the rainbow; Sea of Glass in Heaven (an ocean), also known as the Crystal Sea; River of Life.

 

Jasper = Similar to a diamond, reflecting every color of the rainbow; New Jerusalem.

 

Rainbow = God's covenant with us, God's faithfulness, God keeps His promises, the Glory of God reflects like a rainbow, jasper and other gemstones in heaven giving off a rainbow, many rainbows in heaven. The rainbow represents the nations of this world and of heaven. Rainbows issue out of the saints in Heaven. Rainbows also speak of God’s faithfulness to keep His covenant and promises.

 

Curtain at the gate in Moses’ Tabernacle (white linen with blue, purple and red embroidery).

 

 

The Colors Correspond to the four Gospels:

 

Matthew = Purple, Royalty, Jesus portrayed as King of the Jews

 

Mark = Red, Blood of Christ, Jesus portrayed as suffering servant

 

Luke = White Linen, Jesus portrayed as universal God (out of all the false gods, He is the One and Only True and Living God for all peoples of the earth), and perfect man (fully God and fully man).

 

John = Blue, Jesus revealed to be God Almighty, Divinity, Heavenly.

 

Black and White = the prophetic, especially written form (words are written in black and white); writing ministry; Scribe; “write the vision” (Habakkuk 2:2-3); the absolutes in God's Word.

Bibliography

 

The Holy Bible.  Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version, New King James Version, New International Version and Amplified Version.

 

James Strong, L.L.D., S.T.D., Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1990)

 

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (Biblesoft PC Study Bible, Version 5)

 

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon (Biblesoft PC Study Bible, Version 5)

 

Englishmen’s Concordance (Biblesoft PC Study Bible, Version 5)

 

Fred H. Wight, Manners and Customs of Bible Lands (Chicago: Moody Bible Institute, 1953)

 

William Smith, A Dictionary of the Bible (Philadelphia: Universal Book and Bible House)

 

Easton’s Bible Dictionary (Biblesoft PC Study Bible, Version 5)

 

J.D. Douglas, NIV Compact Dictionary of the Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1989)

 

Kevin J. Conner, The Tabernacle of David (Portland, OR: City Bible Publishing, 1976)

 

Dick Iverson, Present Day Truths (Portland, OR: Bible Temple Publishing, 1975)

 

Ernest B. Gentile, Worship God! (Portland, OR: Bible Temple Publishing, 1994)

 

Ruth Collingridge, Introduction to Praise (Lynwood, WA: Aglow Publications, 1981)

 

Lora Allison, Celebration – Banners, Dance and Holiness in Worship (Celebration International Ministries, 1987)

 

James P. Gills, The Dynamics of Worship (Tarpon Springs, FL: Love Press, 1992)

 

Lucien Deiss, Dance for the Lord (Schiller Park: World Library Publications, 1975)

 

Notes I took from a Benny Hinn Conference on the Anointing, Jubilee Christian Center, San Jose, California – January 24-25, 2008