Goodness— A Fruit of the Spirit

As you begin a new year, consider a dedicated focus on the fruits of the Spirit as one of your goals. Let’s consider one fabulous fruit given to all who believe in Jesus Christ — goodness.

Goodness, at its core, is about reflecting the character of God. It’s more than just being kind or doing good things; it’s about personifying the very nature of who God is. When you allow Him to, the Holy Spirit cultivates goodness within you, shaping your heart and actions to align with God’s nature, full of grace, mercy, and love.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things, there is no law.

– Galatians 5:22-23 ESV

The world often tries to shape “goodness” through polished actions or kind words, but the goodness God calls you to experience brings a Spirit-empowered outpouring that reflects His love in every part of your life. True goodness comes from your heart; it’s a decision to live with integrity and sincerity, to act in ways that bless others, and to seek what is right, even when no one else is watching. When you allow the Holy Spirit to fill your heart, you find that His goodness becomes a natural response rather than a forced action.

As you walk closely with God, His goodness radiates in and through you.

You were “created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” God has given you an invitation to let His goodness flow through you for great purpose. When you commit to living for God, you start to see His hand at work in your life, guiding you to moments where goodness flows freely. Acts of goodness are the Holy Spirit’s work within you.

When you stop trying to “be good” in your strength, and instead, allow God’s goodness to take root in your heart, His Spirit will begin to shape you and bring forth a life rich in the fruits of the Spirit— love, joy, peace, and, yes, goodness that points back to Him.

Today’s One Thing

Trust in the Lord and allow the Holy Spirit to shape you. Take a moment and pray: “God, let Your goodness flow through me. Shape my heart with Your Spirit so that my actions reflect Your love and draw others closer to You.”

Go Deeper

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