The Fruits Of The Spirit - Joy

ll nine parts of the fruit of the Spirit are listed in Galatians 5:22-23. Following this inspired list, Paul exhorts, "And they that are Christ's (Christians) have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vainglory, provoking one another, envying one another" (Gal.5:24-26). The producing of the fruit of the Spirit will remove vainglory, evil provocation, and envy from our lives. Joy will be the result in our lives!

Walking In The Spirit Produces Joy

We must realize that without faith, which comes by hearing God's Word, we cannot please God (Heb 11:6; Rom.l0:17). The beloved John wrote, "These things write we unto you that your joy may be full" (I John.l:4). And, when 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 cleanseth us from all sin" (I John.1:7). Obedience to our King brings the greatest joy to life on earth! The Holy Spirit's teaching produces the second listed fruit of joy, meaning gladness, exhilaration, and rejoicing as the result of obedience. There is no greater happiness and joy in life than that which results as we come from the waters of baptism!

So it was with the Ethiopian eunuch, who after his belief, repentance, confession, and baptism, "went on his way rejoicing" (Acts 8:39).

There Is Joy In Living For Jesus

What joy results from such actions on our part! No one on earth has cause for joy like the Christian! Even in prison Paul could say, "rejoice in the Lord always" (Phil.4:4), and again, "rejoice evermore" (IThess.5:16). Jesus' teaching can bring peace and joy to our lives which the world cannot ever supply! (John.14:27).

Understanding The Cost Produces Joy

The blessing of the fruit called joy, does not come without cost. Jesus said, "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me" (Lk.9:23). However, the cost in comparison to the riches of Heaven are incomparable! (II Cor.4:16-18). The greatness of joy is unspeakable to those who place all of their trust in Christ (John.14:1-6; Rev.14:l3). Some with David may need to say, "Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation." (Psa.51:12).

GaryColley
172 Lakeview Dr.
McMinnville, TN 37110