Christian joy is: A disposition of the redeemed, who, being empowered by the Holy Spirit, seek to maintain a genuine, deep, inner attitude of good cheer and hope toward all, even in difficult circumstances, but especially toward the people of God in one’s church.

I recently preached a series on the fruit of the Spirit from Galatians chapter five and found it to be, well, fruitful. This vital section of Scripture draws a sharp contrast between the works of the flesh (vv. 19-21) and the fruit that the Holy Spirit produces in the lives of God’s true children (vv. 22, 23). Paul wrote these words to the Galatians in part to show them that true spirituality is not measured merely by outward practices, such as adherence to the Mosaic Law, but rather by the inward transformation that the Spirit of God produces in God’s redeemed children—a transformation that is primarily to be expressed toward others within one’s congregation. Here is my definition of the fruit of the Spirit:

The fruit of the Spirit is the character traits, attitudes, and attributes of the true children of God that belong to a new life in Christ and grow from it, which are called forth from the Word of God and are to be expressed toward all but especially others in one’s church.

Below are descriptions of all nine aspects or manifestations of the singular fruit that the Holy Spirit produces in the lives of believers, which are interconnected and collectively form the evidence of a transformed life. Each aspect is empowered by the Holy Spirit, relates to others—especially fellow church members—promotes their good, and is to be done for the glory of God. May it be, then, that as we continue to cultivate a close relationship with Christ through prayer, Scripture reading, and corporate worship, God will be pleased to keep producing these glorious spiritual realities in us, so that this year we will bring forth an abundant harvest to the praise and honor of His great Name.

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