The Fruit of the Spirit’s Not an Apple | July 3, 2019

DAILY READING

Galatians 5:22-23

FIELD NOTES

We know that we are called to be disciples of Christ, but how do we know if we are on the right track?  What are the marks of a Christian disciple?  One of the most famous verses of the letter to Galatians is the passage of the fruit of the Spirit.  You might remember the song from when you were a kid… “The fruit of the Spirit’s not an apple… the fruit of the Spirit’s not an apple…” and on it goes.  When a plant is healthy and mature, it produces fruit.  It must go through many stages of growth before it can produce fruit.  In the same way, the fruits of the Spirit are the marks of a disciple who has grown mature and deep in her faith.  She is deeply rooted in her faith.  Do you have love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness and self-control?  These are the marks of the true disciple according to Paul.

QUESTIONS FOR THE FIELD 

• Do you bear the fruit of the Spirit?  If not, how is God calling you to bear that fruit?
• What would you consider the “marks” of a Christian disciple?  What have you seen in others that lets you know that they are deeply rooted in their faiths?

FAMILY TALK

• Try learning this song together as a family:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymNuBZXCK20

PRAYER GUIDE

Loving and gracious God, grow in me a deep faith.  Help me to bare your fruit out in the world that others may feel Your love and grace and know who you are.  Amen.