The Fruit of the Spirit

The introduction: These nine qualities are the fruit — singular — produced by the Spirit in believers.

Love: Patient, kind, not envious or boastful — the greatest of all virtues.

Joy: Not happiness based on circumstances, but deep rejoicing in the Lord always.

Peace: Not as the world gives — Christ's peace guards our hearts and minds.

Longsuffering: God's patience with sinners is our model for patience with others.

Kindness: Tenderhearted, forgiving one another as God in Christ forgave us.

Goodness: Active benevolence that does good to others, even at personal cost.

Faithfulness: The substance of things hoped for — trust in God's promises.

Gentleness (Meekness): Strength under control — esteeming others better than ourselves.

Self-control (Temperance): Mastery over desires — every athlete exercises it.