But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 ESV

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends. 1 Corinthians 13:7-8a ESV

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 ESV

Last Saturday we had Vacation Bible School for kids in our area from 3 years old to 18 years old. It was a lot of fun! One of our discussions and crafts was on the fruits of the Holy Spirit. Think for just a minute. What is your favorite fruit? Where does it grow, a tree, a bush, or maybe a vine? Fruits grow because they have sunshine and rain and good soil to grow in.

Our first verse lists nine “fruits” of the Spirit. These fruits are able to grow in us, first because of God’s love for us! And as we know and love God and Jesus and are filled with the Spirit, we can grow all of these “fruits” to share with others. The more we learn about God and Jesus the more fruit we will grow!

The fruits of the Spirit are the ways we can share God’s love with others.

     We can grow love for others by knowing God created and loves them, too.

     We can grow joy to shine for others because God’s love gives us joy.

     We can grow peace when life is hard because Jesus is always with us.

     We can grow patience when we know God’s hears our prayers, even if we have to wait.

     We can grow goodness by wanting to serve God and helping others

     We can grow faithfulness by trusting in God and knowing He will help us.

     We can grow kindness and gentleness as we try to be more like Jesus.

     We can grow self-control when we choose to do what God says is right.

This week talk with your parents, think of ways you can all “grow” more “fruits of the Spirit.” Think about how you can share your “fruits” with others. Love like Jesus. Shine joy. Be calm and peaceful. Wait with patience. Show goodness and faithfulness. Treat everyone one with kindness and gentleness. And choose self-control for yourself.

Blessings and fruitfulness as you share the love!