We discussed several weeks ago four
characteristics in Scripture that have been shown in the scientific literature to
improve wellbeing: hope, empathy, thankfulness and forgiveness. Then we spoke
about the importance of the Holy Spirit as a key link, along with the 5 tools
to maturity (see prior blogs), in allowing God’s influence in our lives, which
leads to enhanced wellbeing.
Besides the 4 characteristics mentioned above, what other helpful
attributes can we realize in our Christian lives? Many scriptures detail the
helpful attributes God desires us to have. One of the most important is stated in
Galatians 5:22 which details the fruit of the Spirit:
love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, humility and self-control.
As they are a fruit of the Spirit how can they
be gained? Last week we learned that in general there are three roles in the
Christian’s relationship with the Spirit. These roles can be used to gain the attributes
of the fruit of the Spirit as well as other godly characteristics that can
improve our lives. Let’s apply these three principles in regard to the fruit of
the Spirit (please see last week’s blog for a more complete description).
1. Non-variable actions of the
Spirit: A Christian should first realize they possess the Holy Spirit
permanently: He dwells inside them with all of His available power (Ephesians 1:13-14;
II Corinthians 1:22; 5:5); and the Spirit is our seal (guarantee) of salvation
and cannot be removed (Ephesians 1:13-14; 4:30).
2. Variable actions of
Christians: It is only the believer themselves who can limit the action of
the Spirit in their lives. Therefore we are told to “walk” (i.e., lifestyle) in
the Spirit and become mature in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16; Ephesians 5:18). We
do this by being obedient and seeking the attributes of God through scripture.
3. Variable actions of the
Spirit: If allowed, the Spirit through the word of God can empower our
lives, put to death the deeds of the flesh, and lead and comfort us (Romans
8:13-16), changes us (II Corinthians 3:18) and helps produce in us the 9 fruits
of the Spirit. Not only may these characteristics contribute potentially to
better wellbeing personally, but their presence is a measure of our maturity as
a believer.
Other verses also speak about wonderful
attributes the Christian may acquire from the Spirit (Romans 15:13; Romans 8:6; II Timothy 1:7; Romans 14:17, Ephesians 5:9).
That’s all for now. Thank you for joining me.
Next week we will discuss how a Christian, having gained better wellbeing
themselves, can also enhance the wellbeing of their family, friends and
colleagues. See you next week!
Can the fruit of the Spirit
produce better wellbeing? To participate in our latest poll question - please
visit our website at http://teleiosresearch.com/#anchorpoll
WC Stewart
http://teleiosresearch.com/http://teleiosblog.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/TeleiosResearch/
@TeleiosResearch
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