What we see in his list are the nine characteristics of this one fruit that should be manifested in each believer. Let’s take a quick look at each characteristic. Love: This is the unconditional love from God that we receive and are expected to show toward those around us (1 Cor. 13:1-13). Joy: Joy is felt and manifested in the lives of believers regardless of the circumstances around them. Because joy is of the Lord, only Christians can experience true joy (Ecclesiastes 2:26a). Peace: Peace that can only be explained by the God who gave it. Because of the peace of God within us, we are required to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9). Patience: Patience is the ability to endure difficulties, pain, and loss without lashing out in anger (James 1:2-4). Kindness: This is genuine compassion displayed through generous acts of service and caring (Ephesians 4:32). Goodness: Goodness is doing the right thing even when no one else sees; performing righteous acts to simply provide for someone in need without wanting anything in return (Proverbs 2:20). Faithfulness: This is being loyal and trustworthy to the Lord first, as well as to anyone you have dealings with (1 Corinthians 4:2). Gentleness: Gentleness is displaying meekness and humility while dealing with others respectfully (Ephesians 4:2). Self-control: It is the ability to control one’s emotional responses, desires, and behaviors in a way that gives God glory and lines up with His will (2 Peter 1:5-7). The second facet of the fruit of the Holy Spirit is simply obedience to the Holy Spirit’s leadership in your life as He encourages these characteristics in your daily walk with Christ (John 16:13).
