Galatians 5:22-23 (Fruits of the Spirit)

Sage Perspective / Advanced Reflection

 The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.  Galatians 5: 22-23

When we receive the sacrament of confirmation, we are given the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, strength (fortitude), knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. (Is 11:2). These gifts are not to remain idle or be kept hidden. Rather, they are to be put to good use so they will bear much fruit.

In the letter to the Galatians, St. Paul lists the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit:  love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity (goodness), faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Gal 5:22-23). These are referred to in the singular "fruit" in Galatians. They are all equally important. When we are confirmed and cooperate with God's grace, they expand and intensify. St. Paul emphasizes living according to the Spirit rather than being bound by the law. He contrasts the "works of the flesh" with the "fruits of the Spirit."  The presence of the Holy Spirit in a Christian's life leads to transformation. The fruits are not about striving to achieve them through effort, but rather about allowing the Spirit to work in one's heart and mind. This is a cathartic way to live because it releases us from exclusive preoccupation with our own worries and obsessions. We cannot do this on our own; we need the gifts of the Spirit in order to be free from the natural tendency to be self-absorbed.

The CCC tells us (CCC 1832) "The fruits of the Spirit are perfections that the Holy Spirit forms in us as the first fruits of eternal glory."

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Little Learners

God gives us nine "Fruits of the Spirit". They are superpowers that make us better people. They also make our hearts happy. They are:

🌼 Love: This means caring for others and wanting to help them.

🌷 Joy: This is about feeling really happy because God loves you, even on tough days.

🌸 Peace: This is when you feel calm and safe, like being in a cozy blanket.

🌹Patience: This means waiting without getting upset, like waiting for your turn to play.

🌺 Kindness: This is the Golden Rule! (Matthew 7:12  and Luke 6:31) "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

🌼 Goodness: This is about being honest and doing what’s right, like telling the truth and sharing your toys.

🍀 Faithfulness: This means being someone others can trust.

🌷 Gentleness: This is being soft and caring, like giving a hug or softly helping someone.

🌸 Self-control: This helps you to stay calm and make good choices, even when you really want something right away.

These gifts help us be that God wants us to be.