19 Oct: Filled by the Spirit
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Galatians 5:22–23
Scripture Reading: Galatians 5:22–26
In February 2020, as COVID-19 was beginning to spread across the world, a newspaper columnist raised a thought-provoking question. Would people be willing to change their routines, stay home, adjust their travel plans, and make personal sacrifices to help protect others from getting sick? She wrote, “This isn’t just a test of clinical resources, but of our willingness to put ourselves out for others.” Her words highlighted a truth that remains relevant today: our character is often revealed in how we respond to the needs of those around us.
When we are worried about our own struggles and uncertainties, it is not always easy to think of others first. Yet God does not expect us to rely solely on our own strength. Through the Holy Spirit, we receive the help we need to live differently. He grows in us love instead of indifference, joy in the midst of discouragement, peace when anxiety threatens to take over, and patience when we are tempted to act impulsively. He produces kindness that cares for others, goodness that responds to their needs, faithfulness that keeps commitments, gentleness that replaces harshness, and self-control that helps us resist selfish desires (Galatians 5:22–23).
We will not display these qualities perfectly, but God calls us to continually seek the Spirit’s work in our lives and to be filled with His presence each day(Ephesians 5:18). As we surrender ourselves to Him, He shapes our hearts and helps us reflect Christ more faithfully.
Author Richard Foster once described holiness as the ability to do what needs to be done when it needs to be done. That kind of holiness is not reserved for extraordinary circumstances. It is needed in our homes, workplaces, churches, and communities every day. When opportunities arise to serve, sacrifice, or care for others, may we depend on the Holy Spirit for the strength to respond with obedience and love.
By: Caleb Wright
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Reflect & Pray
When have you made a sacrifice for the sake of others? What needs around you call for the Holy Spirit’s fruit today?
Holy Spirit, fill me afresh today and make me a person of virtue.