In Part 1, we explored what each Fruit of the Holy Spirit means for our hearts, our character, and our walk with Christ. But the beauty of the Spirit’s work is not just in knowing these truths, it is in living them out in our everyday moments.
Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT) reminds us:
“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!”
When we yield to the Holy Spirit, we start to see these fruits show up in our decisions, our relationships, even in the way we respond to challenges, and most importantly in our obedience to Jesus.
How We Use Each Fruit in Real-Life Adult Scenarios
Love: Choosing to speak kindly to a spouse after a disagreement instead of letting anger take over.
“Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way.” — 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 (NLT)
Joy: Praising God in the middle of a stressful week because you know He is still in control.
“Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again, rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4 (NLT)
Peace: Letting go of anxiety over a work deadline and trusting that God will give you the strength and resources to finish well.
“Do not worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” — Philippians 4:6 (NLT)
Patience: Waiting on God’s timing for a new job or relationship without rushing ahead, complaining, or grumbling in the wait.
“But if we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.” — Romans 8:25 (NLT)
Kindness: Bringing a meal to a neighbor who you had disagreement with but is going through a tough time.
“Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” — Ephesians 4:32 (NLT)
Goodness: Standing up for what is right at work even when it’s unpopular.
“The Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free.” — Ephesians 6:8 (NLT)
Faithfulness: Continuing to obey God to serve in your church ministry or place of work, even during a season when you feel unseen.
“Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” — 1 Corinthians 4:2 (NLT)
Gentleness: Responding with calmness when your teenager speaks harshly out of frustration.
“A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.” — Proverbs 15:1 (NLT)
Self-Control: Choosing not to engage in gossip even when the opportunity presents itself.
“A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls.” — Proverbs 25:28 (NLT)
Sharing With Our Children How They Can Use Each Fruit in Real-Life Scenarios
Love – Including a new classmate in a game at recess.
Joy – Thanking God for the day even when it’s raining and you can’t go outside.
Peace – Not worrying about a test because you’ve studied and prayed for God’s help.
Patience – Waiting for your turn in a game without complaining.
Kindness – Sharing your snack with someone who forgot theirs.
Goodness – Telling the truth even if it means admitting you made a mistake.
Faithfulness – Doing your chores or homework every day without having to be reminded.
Gentleness – Handling a younger sibling’s toy carefully so it doesn’t break.
Self-Control – Walking away when you feel tempted to argue with a friend.
Why This Matters
For adults and children alike, the Fruit of the Holy Spirit is not just about good behavior, it’s about being transformed into the image of Christ. It’s about letting His Spirit shape our hearts so our lives reflect His love and truth.
When we live out these fruits, we become witnesses of God’s goodness to the world around us. And when we teach these fruits to our children, both by instruction and by example, we equip them to grow into people who carry Christ’s light wherever they go.
Let’s remember: we don’t grow this fruit by our own effort. The Holy Spirit grows it in us as we walk closely with God, listen to His Word, and depend on His strength.
Want to help your children learn the Fruit of the Spirit in a fun and memorable way? Explore the Fruity Friends book series at www.thefruityfriends.com.