Phase 4: The Fruit of the Spirit

As Christians, we have mainly two natures. To grow in Christ, we must learn to say "No" to the flesh, the old nature, and say "Yes" to Christ and the Holy Spirit who lives within us.

The Christian walk is one of self-denial where we are continuously called to deny ourselves to please the Lord This is because we have two natures, the human nature (the flesh) and the new born nature of the Spirit. These two are constantly at war with each other. The more we succumb to one, the lesser the power of the other. The extent to which we are used of God will depend on the yield of our surrender (our yes to the Spirit), which God desires to be total.

This clarion call to self-denial is a daily one, and the battle continues as long as we are on this side of eternity. This is not always easy or pleasant. God has made provisions through the Holy Spirit that indwells us to empower us to say "No" to the persistent pressure of the flesh and "yes" to Christ and the Holy Spirit that indwells us.

Circle key words or phrases in the following Scriptures

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ lived in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20(KJV)

Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul. 1Peter 2:11 (KJV)

That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lust; and that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Ephesians 4:22, 24 (KJV)

But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. Romans 13:14 (KJV)

*And He said to them all, if any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow me. Luke 9:23 (KJV)

But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: let that by any means. When I have preached to others, I myself should be a cast away. 1 Corinthians 9:27 (KJV)

STUDY GUIDE

1. What do we learn about self-denial in the following verses?

Galatians 2:20 Romans 13:14 1 Peter 2:11 Luke 9:23 Ephesians 4:22-24; 1 Corinthians 9:27

2. Do a verse study on the one of the above Scriptures.

3. Memorize Luke 9:23.

The Bible says, "God loves a cheerful giver," We should give for no other reason than that. The Scriptures below will give you many more reasons for giving generously.

According to the Oxford Dictionary, Generosity is the quality of being kind and generous. To be generous means showing a readiness to give more of something, especially money than is necessary. Contrary to popular opinion, we are not depleted by giving, rather we are increased (Proverbs 28:27, Luke 6:38).

As long as we are alive, we all have something to give. Money is not the only thing we can give, several others include time, talent, and food. (Mention others) Even when we die, the lives we lived could still be a source of inspiration to others and serve as a gift.

The story of the Good Samaritan as well as God by giving his son are examples of generous giving (Luke 10; 25-37, John 3:16). God also wants us to be generous givers and to do so cheerfully following the pattern of Jesus as this usually gives glory to God (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).

Circle key words or phrases in the following Scriptures.

But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? For all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee. 1 Chronicles 29:14 (KJV)

Honour the Lord with thy substances, and with the first fruits of all thine increase: so, shall thy barns be filled with plenty. Proverbs 3:9; 10 (KJV)

There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty. The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself. Proverbs 11:24, 25 (KJV)

Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. Luke 6:38 (KJV)

But this I say, he which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; according as he purposed in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity for God loveth a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:6, 7 (KJV)

...Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, "it is more blessed to give than to receive". Acts 20:35b (KJV)

STUDY GUIDE

1. What do we learn about generosity in the following verses?

1 Chronicle 29:14; Luke 6:38; Proverbs 3:9, 10; 1Corinthians 9:6, 7 Proverbs 11:24, 25; Acts 20:35 b

2. Do a verse study on one of the above Scriptures.

3. Memorize Proverbs 11:24- 25.

In spite of all the trials, testing and suffering, God sovereignly watches over us and meets our every need.

One of the several names of God is "El-Shaddai" which means the God that is more than enough (Gen 17:1). We see this right in the garden of Eden (delight) where God provided all that Adam would ever need before creating him. We also see this care of God as he provided for the children of Israel in the wilderness for 40 years. They never lacked food, their clothes and shoes grew with them.

This goodness of God still extends to us as his children today. In one of Jesus’s mission statement, he declared that he had come so we could have life and have it more abundantly (John 10:10).

This is confirmed in Peter's second epistle, where he says that God has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3), It is God's delight to provide for us as his children and in his economy, abundance is the minimum. (Ephesians 3:20).

Circle key words or phrases in the following Scriptures.

When thou passeth through the waters. I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walketh through fire, thou shah not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.

Isaiah 43:2 (KJV)

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; I will help thee; yea I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Isaiah 41:10 (KJV)

Many are the afflictions of the righteous; the Lord delivereth him out of them all. Psalm 34:19 (KJV) Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.

Psalm 55:22 (KJV)

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 1Peter 5:7 (KJV)

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Matthew 11:28, 29 (KJV)

STUDY GUIDE

1. What do we learn about God's care in the following verses? Isaiah 34:2, Psalm 55:22 Isaiah 41:10, 1 Peter 5:7 Psalm 34:19, Matthew 11:28 29.

2. Do a verse study on one of the above Scriptures.

3. Memorize 1Peter 5:7

A popular song states, "What the world need is love”. People all around us are starving for love and affection. May our love reach out and help to meet that need.

Love is one of the basic needs of human beings and also an integral part of God (1John 4:7), who loves us so much. He demonstrated this love by sending his son Jesus to die on the cross to redeem us (John 3:16). This love of God is shed into our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5) and we demonstrate our love for an unseen God by loving people we see.

As human beings, we have several ways that we communicate love which are known as our love language. Research by Christian psychologist, Gary Chapman, has shown that there are five basic love languages through which people demonstrate and receive love. (The 5 Love Languages-Gary Chapman). All of these require sacrifice and action. Love can be expressed by affirming people with words or appropriate touch, spending time with them, giving gifts and helping them by doing practical things for them. We see this expression of love in the early church (Acts 4:32, 34) and can also experience it in our local church. Mention ways you have experienced love in the local church.

Jesus said that it is through love that all men will know that we are his disciples and John, the Apostle of love further reiterates this by saying that a proof of our knowledge of God is our love (John 13:35; 1 John 4:8). Love is a decision and it is possible to love people without liking them or liking what they do. They in our estimate might not deserve it but it is this unconditional kind of love that God demonstrates (Romans 5:8) and asks us to reciprocate. We all have a debt of love to everyone (Romans 13:8) and by the help of the Holy Spirit, we will pay this debt daily.

Circle key words or phrases in the following Scriptures

A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

John 13:34 (KJV)

Let love be without dissimulation Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectionate one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another. Romans 12:9, 10 (KJV)

We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. 1 John 3:14 (KJV)

But whoso hath this world’s good, and sees his brother have need, and shuts up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwells the love of God in him? My little children let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but indeed, and in truth. 1 John 3:17, 18 (KJV)

And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. Colossians 3:l4 (KJV)

STUDY GUIDE

1. What do we learn about love in the following verses? John 13:34; 1 John 3:14; Romans 12:9, 10; 1 John 3:17, 18; 1Corinthians 13: 1-13; Ephesians 4:2, 3; Colossians 3:14.

2. Do a verse study on one of the above Scriptures.

3. Memorize Romans 12:9, 10 .

It is natural for a person to want recognition and to achieve in this life. The following Scripture will give you some real insights as to how this can become a reality.

Humility is the quality of being humble; a modest opinion or estimate of one's own importance, rank etc. This quality attracts God to us and the opposite (pride) makes him resistant to us.

Naturally we all have a tendency to be proud in one way or the other, maybe of our wealthy status or even our spiritual activities. But an important antidote for pride is the recognition that everything we have or have ever received have come from God. He is the ultimate source of all we possess (including our looks) and achieve. It is by acknowledgement of this, we receive more of his grace.

Circle key words or phrases in the following Scriptures.

Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom. Pride goeth before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 13:10; 16:18 (K.JV)

A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit. Proverbs 28\9:23 (K.JV)

For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. Luke l4: 11 (KJV)

But He giveth more grace. Wherefore He said, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble...Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. James 4:6, 10 (KJV) By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honour, and life. Proverbs 22:4 (KJV)

For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been saith the Lord; but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word. Isaiah 66:2 (KJV)

STUDY GUIDE

1. What do we learn about humility in the following verses?Proverbs 13:10; 16:18; James 4:6,10; Proverbs 29:23; Proverbs 22:4; Luke 14:11; Isaiah 66:2

2. Do a verse study on one of the above Scriptures.

3. Memorize James 4:6, 10 .

Credibility is most essential in building strong personal relationships. We must believe in each other to develop a trust. Credibility is especially important in our witness. If our life does not back up our witness, very little is likely to happen.

A pastor was overpaid by a bus driver on his way back home one evening. On noticing this, the pastor promptly returned the excess money to the bus driver who nodded his head in apparent satisfaction while acknowledging to him that it was a test and the overpayment was deliberate. He also said that he would henceforth begin to attend Church.

Every Christian should be credible. Not only is it necessary for building strong interpersonal relationships, it also adds validity to our faith. We must walk the talk. This is because we may be the only Bible some people will ever read and what a powerful witness it can be when our walk matches our faith.

Our faith should affect the way we do business. Even God is concerned about how we act in the market place (Proverbs 11:21). He hates dishonest scales (Proverbs 20:23). After Jesus met Zacchaeus, an exploitive tax collector, he repented and on his own declared "…and if I have taken anything from any man by false accusation, I restore him four-fold” (Luke 19:8).

Circle key word or phrases in the following Scriptures.

But we have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. 2 Corinthians 4:2 (KJV)

Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds. Colosians 3:9(KJV)

Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. Romans 12:17

(KJV)

Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men. 2 Corinthians 8:21 (KJV)

A false balance is abomination to the Lord: but a just weight is his delight. The integrity of the upright shall guide them but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them. Proverbs 11:1, 3 (KJV)

The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble. He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit. Proverbs 17:13, 17 (KJV)

STUDY GUIDE

1.What do we learn about honesty in the following verses?

 Corinthians 4:2; 2 Corinthians 8:21; Colosians 3:9; Proverbs 11:1, 3 Romans 12:17; Proverbs 12:13, 17

2.Do a verse study on one of the above Scriptures.

3 Memorize 2 Corinthians 8:21

In many Scriptures, the word "heart" "thoughts" "mind" or "affections" are one and the same. What we are or do daily will be greatly determined by what is in our heart, because what is there will lead to action, good or otherwise.

The "heart" is the centre from which all our actions spring and depicts who we really are (Proverbs 27:6). It is the seat of our affections. Several other synonyms for "heart" used in Scriptures include mind, thoughts. When we become born again, our spirits are born again but there is a need for renewing and cleansing our hearts daily by the Word of God so it can be aligned correctly. (Romans 12:2).

The mirror of the Word of God put against our lives on a daily basis can help us to live righteously and shun sin (Psalms 119:11, 2 Corinthians 3:18, Psalms 119:11). It is only the pure in heart that will see God (Matthew 5:8) and this pureness comes from the application of the Word of God (Psalms 119:9).

Circle key words or phrases in the following Scriptures.

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it.? Jeremiah 17:9 (KJV)

...That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. Mark7:20-22 (KJV)

Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. Proverbs 4:23 (KJV)

If we have forgotten the name of our God, or stretched out our hands to a strange god; Shall not God search this out? For he knoweth the secrets of the heart. Psalm 44:20,21 (KJV)

Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23,24 (KJV)

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Psalm 51:10 (KJV)

STUDY GUIDE

1. What do we learn about perspective in the following verses?

Titus 2:12, 13; Colossians 3:4, 5; 1 John 3:2, 3; Philippians 3:20; 1 John 2:28 John 14:1-3

2. Do a verse study on one of the above Scriptures.

3. Memorize Titus 2:12. 13.

You will learn in the following Scriptures that the tongue, though a very small member of the body, has enormous power for good or evil and must be continually controlled.

It may be one of the smallest members of the body but with it words are spoken that have resulted in wars both locally and internationally Just like the steering wheel controls the whole car, the tongue controls our lives (James 3:5). In short, our lives today are a product of the good and evil words that have been spoken over it.

According to Solomon, the wisest man that ever lived, life and death are in the power of the tongue, (Proverbs 18:21) hence the need to ensure that whenever we use the tongue, we are speaking in line with God's word, giving life and declaring blessings over our future. Rather than cursing, we are enjoined to use the tongue to speak well about ourselves, our spouses, our children, our bosses, our church and our nation. Why? Because Jesus declares that we shall have what we say (Mark 11:23).

Circle key words or phrases in the following Scriptures.

For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. James 3:7, 8 (KJV)

There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is healthy. Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad. Proverbs 12:18, 25 (KJV)

Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles. Proverbs 21:23 (KJV)

For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile. 1 Peter 3:10 (KJV)

He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction. Proverbs 13:3 (KJV)

Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought-to answer every man. Colossians 4:6 (KJV)

STUDY GUIDE

1. What do we learn about tongue in the following verses?James 3:7, 8; 1 Peter 3:10; Proverbs 12:18, 25; Proverbs 13:3; Proverbs 21:23; Colossians 4:6

2. Do a verse study on one of the above Scriptures.

3. Memorize Colossians 4:6.

If you want to be forgiven and be at peace with God and your fellowman, then learn to forgive others. An unforgiving attitude can lead to your ruin.

As long as we have relationships, we will become offended by people at one time or the other. Forgiveness is not to be dependent on whether or not an apology is rendered. Contrary to popular opinion, when we forgive, we do ourselves a favour. Not only do we experience peace, we make ourselves suitable recipients of God's own forgiveness. We also sow a seed which we will reap as it is inevitable that we will offend others also. Living in unforgiveness is deeply rooted in pride and is a cause of unanswered prayer. It can breed bitterness and serve as a foothold for the devil, defiling many (Hebrews 12:15). It is also a denial of the grace from God which we have received.

Forgiveness does not necessarily mean that the memory of the incident is wiped out. Rather, when it is relived, it is so without the pain of the hurt. Neither should forgiveness make us put ourselves back in a position where we are vulnerable as it may be necessary to curtail or end some relationships so we are not hurt again. An example of this is removing ourselves from people who have molested us in the past. We should also leave room for trust to be built again in some cases and not have unrealistic demands on people who may still be healing as a result of our offence. We make it easier for people to forgive us by apologizing sincerely and showing by our actions that their feelings are a priority of ours.

Circle key words or phrases in the following Scriptures.

Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. Luke 23:34 (KJV)

Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, until seven times: but, until seventy times seven. Matthew 18:21,22 (KJV)

Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven. Luke 6:37 (KJV)

And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have hurt against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. Mark 11:25 (KJV)

*And be ye kind one to another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32 (KJV)

Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. Colosians3:13 (KJV)

STUDY GUIDE

1. What do we learn about forgiving others in the following verses?

Luke 23:34; Mark 11:25; Matthew 18:21, 22; Ephesians 4:32; Luke 6:37 Colossians 3:13

2. Do a verse study on one of the above Scriptures.

3. Memorize Ephesians 4:32.

One day, we do not know the day or hour; Jesus Christ is coming again to take us to be with Him forever. The Scripture clearly tell us how we should live daily as we await His coming.

Having the right perspective is crucial to our lives as Christians. This is because there is always a tendency as human beings to see the present as final. This not only robs us of the awareness that our work will eventfully be judged and rewarded (1 Corinthians 15:58) but also the joy and peace that could also be ours when we know that God has everything under his control.

Circle key words or phrases in the following Scriptures.

Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ. Titus 2:12, 13 (KJV)

For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.Philippians 3:20 (KJV)

When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry.Colosians 3:4, 5 (KJV)

And now, little children, abide in Him; that when He shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before Him at His coming. 1 John2:28 (KJV)

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In I my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. John 14:1-3 (KJV)

STUDY GUIDE

1. What do we learn about perspective in the following verses?

Titus 2:12, 13; Colossians 3:4, 5; 1 John 3:2, 3; Philippians 3:20; 1 John 2:28 John 14:1-3

2. Do a verse study on one of the above Scriptures.

3. Memorize Titus 2:12. 13.