Come Holy Spirit Series
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Come Holy Spirit |
"Let
us not grow weary in doing good, for in due time we will reap a harvest, if we
do not give up." — Galatians 6:9
What
Is the Fruit of Goodness?
The
fruit of goodness is more than being "good" in a moral or
socially acceptable way. Goodness is a deep, inner integrity shaped by the Holy
Spirit and expressed outwardly in our actions. It is the conscious choice to
live in alignment with God’s will—doing what is right, just, and compassionate
even when no one is watching. It reflects the very nature of God, who is
goodness itself (Psalm 34:8).
In
the context of the spiritual fruits, goodness is both moral excellence
and active benevolence. It is the habit of seeking the best for others
without selfish motives. It’s kindness coupled with righteousness. This fruit
motivates us to walk with integrity and courage in a world that can often
reward self-interest over virtue.
How
Is Goodness Connected to the Gifts of the Spirit?
The
fruit of goodness grows most fully in a soul that cooperates with the Holy
Spirit’s gifts. Particularly, the gifts of fortitude, piety, and fear
of the Lord fuel the growth of goodness:
- Fortitude gives the strength to stand for
what is right, even when it is difficult.
- Piety or reverence nourishes our
commitment to live in loving obedience to God.
- Fear
of the Lord
reminds us to walk humbly and righteously, not out of fear of punishment,
but out of love and awe for God’s holiness.
The
gifts cultivate the soil of our heart so that the fruit of goodness can
flourish.
Scriptures
for Reflection
- "The
Lord is good to all, and His tender mercies are over all His works." — Psalm 145:9
- "Do
not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." — Romans 12:21
- "For
the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and
truth." —
Ephesians 5:9
- "Trust
in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture." — Psalm 37:3
Living
the Fruit of Goodness in Daily Life
Practicing
goodness means making consistent decisions to live uprightly—not for
recognition, but as a reflection of God’s presence in us. Here are some ways to
live out this fruit:
- Speak
truthfully, even when it would be easier to stay silent or twist the
truth.
- Step in
to protect or advocate for someone being treated unjustly.
- Take
responsibility for your actions, even if it costs you.
- Seek
ways to bless others anonymously—doing good for the sake of goodness.
- Reflect
regularly on your conscience: "Am I choosing what is truly good, or
just what is convenient?"
Goodness
doesn’t always feel convenient or comfortable. But when it flows from a
Spirit-filled heart, it becomes a beacon of hope and light in the world.
Opportunity
to Journal
Take
time this week to sit quietly with the Holy Spirit and reflect on these
questions in your journal:
- What
does "goodness" mean to me spiritually—not just morally?
- Can I
recall a time when someone’s quiet act of goodness impacted me?
- In
what area of my life is God inviting me to grow in goodness?
- Are
there habits or choices that I need to release to allow this fruit to grow
more fully?
- How
can I be a quiet witness of God’s goodness in the world this week?
- How
do I discern whether an action is "good" in the eyes of God and
not just society?
Prayer
Come,
Holy Spirit, fill me with the fruit of goodness.
Teach me to reflect Your holiness in my thoughts, words, and actions.
Give me courage to do what is right even when it’s hard,
and help me to be a living sign of Your love in the world.
Amen.