Daily Dose 9-20-11

Galatians 5:22-26 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

How much fruit do you have in your spiritual basket each day? It’s a good practice to do a fruit check each night. Look at how well you produced the fruit of the Spirit throughout the day. Did you show love? Did you walk in joy? Did you bring peace? Were you patient with others? Did you show kindness? Did your life exhibit goodness? Were you faithful to God’s commands? Were you gentle instead of harsh or bitter? Did you practice self-control? Before you begin to feel defeated, remember that we don’t strive for perfection in life, it’s impossible. However, as Christ followers, we should be looking for progress on the journey. The most productive fruit trees endure some pruning. Take the time each day to check your Spiritual fruit tree. Snip away the sin that prevents your branches from blooming. Add nutrients to its soil by spending time in the Word and prayer. Grow a little each day toward the person Christ calls you to be. Your life will begin to produce fruit that will refresh and encourage others to taste what a relationship with Christ can bring!

Father, I confess to You my basket seems very light at the end of each day. Please help me to be a more fruitful tree in Your orchard. Increase Your Spirit in me to prick my heart throughout the day to exhibit the fruit You desire for me. May I begin to have an over-flowing basket each day! I love You! Amen