Joy is the Fruit of the Spirit

“²²But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” — Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV)

This morning is was brought back to this passage in Galatians as Paul identifies what it is to walk by the Spirit. The verses above are what the fruit of the Spirit are all about and how I should be approaching the world around me. I have to live these characteristics in order that I should walk by the Spirit.

But there is more to it than just looking at what I should be doing. I have to look at what I am leaving behind in order to do so. I have to leave all of those things that are of the flesh behind, has I am not able to do both, walk by the Spirit and the flesh. Those things that are of the flesh are the likes of idolatry, sorcery, jealousy, envy, drunkenness, and others that are found in verses 19-21 of the same passage.

I know what may be thought of, can’t I just have a little fun. Well there is a choice to be made between “fun” and joy. Fun is for the moment and joy is sustainable. Fun is something that may be experienced right then, although it will not be there later. I can laugh at the misfortune of others, yet there is misfortune on someone and that is ultimately a negative and the “fun” will only be there while I am laughing.

Joy is there for the long haul. I may not laugh at everything, but I will be able to smile and move forward easily and carry that movement to others. I will be able to lift others up and bring joy and fulfillment to others. There will be a lasting smile from the good feeling and not the here today and gone tomorrow sense that comes with the momentary laughter that comes with those things that are of the flesh.

Joy is internal and deep, whereas fun is on the surface and shallow. Only satisfying the surface creates a continue longing for more of the same. The depth of joy leads to being content in where you are. I have to remember to be content and relish in the joy that comes from the fruit of the Spirit. I am filled with the fruit of the Spirit and will have that joy, not only today but, for the long haul.

What are you seeking? Are you looking to find the moments of fun found in the flesh? What if you sought joy that comes from the fruit of the Spirit that is eternal?