(Based on Galatians 5 Ver 22-23)
Resurrection requires a complete "reset" or a "new beginning"—one that is both an outward departure from the past (water) and an inward transformation by the Divine (spirit). We have to move forward - move from "believing" to "becoming.
Having gone through lent, the passion week, Holy Saturday and the Resurrection, today let's think: what difference did all this make in my life?
To help us think this through, let's look at what will look like. PAUL has been quite clear in this matter when he talks about how our relationship with Jesus and the Holy Spirit, effects a change in our spiritual and physical life. He called it the "fruits of the Spirit". Let's see how we can progress:
1. The Inward Fruit (our Relationship with God)
These qualities anchor our internal world and provide the "roots" for everything else.
Love (Agapé): Map this to your motivations.
Ask: "Am I doing this (my job, my service, my posts) to be seen, or out of a genuine desire for the well-being of others?"
Action: Practice "anonymous" kindness.
Joy: Map this to your perspective, regardless of circumstances.
Ask: "Can I find God’s goodness even in a 'disaster"?
Action: Keep a gratitude journal (like your "name three things" exercise) to anchor your joy in God's character rather than your comfort.
Peace: Map this to your anxiety levels.
Ask: "Am I resting in God’s sovereignty, or am I trying to control every outcome?"
Action: When a problem arises, use the "Quiet Blessing" approach—pray before you plan.
_______________________________________________________
2. The Outward Fruit (our Relationship with Others)
These qualities are the "branches" that others interact with daily.
Patience (Longsuffering): Map this to your reactions.
Ask: "How do I respond when things move slowly (in recovery, in business, or in traffic)?"
Action: Intentionally wait. Let someone go ahead of you in line; breathe before responding to a difficult email.
Kindness: Map this to your tone.
Ask: "Is my 'output'—my words and social media presence—useful and healing, or sharp and critical?"
Action: Send one encouraging text or prayer to someone every day.
Goodness: Map this to integrity.
Ask: "Do I do the right thing when no one is watching? (e.g., being honest about a flaw in a vintage item I'm selling?)"
Action: Choose the path of honesty even when it costs you a "sale" or an advantage.
___________________________________________________________
3. The Upward Fruit (our Character & Discipline)
These qualities are the "ripeness" of the fruit, showing maturity and strength.
Faithfulness: Map this to your commitments.
Ask: "Am I reliable? Do I follow through on my prayers and my promises?"
Action: Be consistent in the "small things"—daily prayer, finishing a task, or showing up for a friend.
Gentleness (Meekness): Map this to your power.
(Note: Gentleness isn't weakness; it is "power under control.")
Ask: "Do I use my influence to lift others up or to push my own agenda?"
Action: Listen twice as much as you speak today.
Self-Control (Temperance): Map this to your appetites and impulses.
Ask: "What is 'driving the bus' of my life? My emotions, or the Holy Spirit?"
Action: Practice a small fast (from social media, sugar, or complaining) to remind your body that the Spirit is in charge.
Weekly Practise Schedule
