The fruit of the Spirit refers to the qualities and characteristics that are produced in the life of a believer through the work of the Holy Spirit. This biblical concept is mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23 and encompasses love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These attributes are the result of the Holy Spirit’s transformative power, shaping individuals into the image of Christ.
Key Takeaways:
- The fruit of the Spirit represents qualities and characteristics that manifest in a believer’s life through the Holy Spirit’s work.
- These qualities include love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
- The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in transforming believers and shaping them into Christ-like individuals.
- The fruit of the Spirit is in contrast to the acts of the sinful nature, and it represents a battle between the old and new nature in a Christian’s life.
- With the help of the Holy Spirit, believers can progressively exhibit more of the fruit of the Spirit, growing in their spiritual journey.
Exploring the Biblical Fruit of the Spirit
The fruit of the Spirit is described in Galatians 5:22-23 as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These characteristics are not merely qualities we should strive to possess, but they are the result of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives as believers. They are evidence of the Holy Spirit’s presence and activity within us.
In exploring the fruit of the Spirit, we see that each characteristic is interconnected and dependent on one another. Love forms the foundation of the fruit of the Spirit, permeating and guiding all the other qualities. It is through love that joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control find their true expression.
As we develop the fruit of the Spirit, we begin to reflect the image of Christ more fully. Our lives become a testament to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, as we exhibit the love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control that are characteristic of Jesus Himself.
Emphasizing the Importance
“The fruit of the Spirit is the evidence of a surrendered life, a life lived in alignment with God’s will. It is the result of allowing the Holy Spirit to work within us, shaping us into the likeness of Christ.”
Each of these characteristics requires us to surrender our own desires and allow the Holy Spirit to work in and through us. They are not natural to our sinful nature, but they are supernatural qualities that the Holy Spirit produces within us.
As we continue to explore the fruit of the Spirit in the following sections, we will delve deeper into each characteristic, understanding their meaning and relevance in our spiritual growth. We will learn how the Holy Spirit empowers us to progressively exhibit more of the fruit in our lives, and how cultivating these qualities can transform our relationships, attitudes, and actions.
| Fruit of the Spirit | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Love | Unconditional, sacrificial love for others |
| Joy | Deep and abiding joy that transcends circumstances |
| Peace | Inner tranquility and harmony with God and others |
| Patience | Endurance and forbearance in difficult situations |
| Kindness | Acting with benevolence and empathy towards others |
| Goodness | Exhibiting moral excellence and integrity |
| Faithfulness | Steadfast loyalty and commitment to God and others |
| Gentleness | Showcasing humility, meekness, and kindness |
| Self-control | Exercising restraint and discipline over our actions and desires |
The Transformative Power of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the lives of believers, working to transform them into the image of Christ by producing the fruit of the Spirit. As mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23, the fruit of the Spirit includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities are not something that can be achieved by human effort alone, but are the result of the Holy Spirit’s work within us. Through His power, we are able to bear fruit that reflects the character of God.
Just as a tree produces fruit naturally, the Holy Spirit produces these fruits in our lives as we yield to Him and allow Him to work in us. The process of transformation is not something that happens overnight, but rather a lifelong journey of surrender and dependence on the Holy Spirit. He empowers us to live a life that is pleasing to God and points others to Him.
The transformative power of the Holy Spirit goes beyond simply changing our external behaviors. His work within us goes deep, transforming our hearts and minds to align with the image of Christ. As we allow the Holy Spirit to produce His fruit in us, we become more loving, joyful, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled. These qualities not only reflect God’s nature, but they also enable us to navigate life’s challenges with grace and to be a light in a world filled with darkness.
“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
Through the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, we are able to live a life that honors God and exemplifies the character of Christ. It is a beautiful process of growth and maturity, as the Holy Spirit cultivates the fruit of the Spirit within us. Let us continue to yield to His work in our lives, allowing Him to transform us into vessels that bear fruit for His glory.
The Battle Between Sinful Nature and New Nature
The Christian life is characterized by a constant battle between the sinful nature inherited from humanity’s fallen state and the new nature received through Christ’s redemptive work. In Galatians 5:16-17, the apostle Paul writes, “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.”
This battle between the sinful nature and the new nature is a reality in the life of every believer. The sinful nature, also known as the flesh, represents our natural tendency to rebel against God and pursue our own selfish desires. It is characterized by actions such as sexual immorality, impurity, idolatry, hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy (Galatians 5:19-21).
On the other hand, the new nature received through Christ’s work on the cross is characterized by the fruit of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities are evidence of the Holy Spirit’s work within us, transforming us into the image of Christ.
Progressively Exhibiting the Fruit of the Spirit
With the assistance of the Holy Spirit, believers can gradually develop and display the fruit of the Spirit in their daily lives. The fruit of the Spirit, as mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23, encompasses qualities such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These characteristics are not something that we can produce on our own, but rather they are the result of the Holy Spirit’s work within us.
Just as a fruit tree requires time, care, and nurturing to bear fruit, so too do we need to cultivate and cooperate with the Holy Spirit to see the fruit of the Spirit manifested in our lives. It is a process that takes time and patience, but it is worth the effort. We can begin by surrendering ourselves to God, inviting the Holy Spirit to work in us and transform us from the inside out.
The Holy Spirit’s role in our lives is to align our hearts and minds with the character of Christ, producing these fruits as evidence of our growing relationship with Him. As we yield to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, we can expect to see gradual changes in our attitudes, actions, and interactions with others. Our love will become more genuine, our joy will be unaffected by circumstances, and our patience will extend beyond our own capabilities.
| Fruit of the Spirit | Related Verse |
|---|---|
| Love | “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8 |
| Joy | “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13 |
| Peace | “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” – Colossians 3:15 |
| Patience | “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” – Ephesians 4:2 |
“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” – Galatians 5:22-23
As we continue to walk with the Holy Spirit, intentionally seeking His guidance and relying on His strength, we will progressively exhibit more of the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. It is a journey of growth and transformation, where the Holy Spirit shapes us into individuals who reflect the character of Christ. Let us embrace the Holy Spirit’s help and allow Him to work in us, producing the beautiful fruit that testifies to the power and presence of God in our lives.
With the Holy Spirit’s assistance, believers can progressively develop and display the fruit of the Spirit in their daily lives. This fruit includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. It is not something we can produce on our own, but rather the result of the Holy Spirit’s work within us.
To see the fruit of the Spirit manifested, we need to cooperate with the Holy Spirit, surrendering ourselves to God and inviting His transformational power into our lives. As we yield to His guidance, we can expect gradual changes in our attitudes, actions, and interactions with others. The fruit of the Spirit becomes evidence of our growing relationship with Christ.
By intentionally walking with the Holy Spirit, we can progressively exhibit more of these qualities. It is a journey of growth and transformation, where the Holy Spirit shapes us into individuals who reflect the character of Christ. Let us embrace His help and allow Him to work in us, producing the beautiful fruit that testifies to God’s power and presence in our lives.
| Fruit of the Spirit | Related Verse |
|---|---|
| Love | “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8 |
| Joy | “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13 |
| Peace | “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” – Colossians 3:15 |
| Patience | “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” – Ephesians 4:2 |
Love – The Foundation of the Fruit of the Spirit
Love is a fundamental quality that underpins and connects all the other aspects of the fruit of the Spirit. As Christians, we are called to love one another, just as Christ loved us. Love is not merely an emotion or a fleeting feeling; it is a selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional commitment to the well-being and flourishing of others.
When we embody the fruit of love, we reflect the very nature of God, for God is love. It is through love that we demonstrate our connection with the Holy Spirit, who enables us to love even when it is difficult or inconvenient. Love compels us to put others’ needs before our own, to forgive and reconcile, and to show compassion and kindness.
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8
In a world that often emphasizes individualism and self-interest, the fruit of love challenges us to embrace a higher standard. It calls us to love not only those who are easy to love, but also those who may be different from us, those who have hurt us, and even our enemies. Love has the power to break down barriers, heal wounds, and bring about transformation in our relationships and communities.
As we cultivate love as the foundation of the fruit of the Spirit, we remind ourselves of God’s great love for us and the example set by Jesus Christ. Love is not a stagnant attribute but a dynamic force that challenges us to grow and mature in our faith. When we love, we align ourselves with God’s purposes and participate in His redemptive work in the world.
Let us remember that love is not an option for believers but a commandment given to us by Jesus Himself. By embracing love as the foundational quality of the fruit of the Spirit, we can experience the transformative power of God’s love in our lives and become conduits through which His love flows to others.
Joy, Peace, and Patience – Inner Reflections of the Spirit
The fruit of the Spirit manifests internally through the experiences of joy, peace, and patience. These qualities are not mere fleeting emotions, but deep-rooted expressions of the Spirit’s work within us. Joy, the genuine delight and gladness in our hearts, is a source of strength and resilience in the midst of life’s challenges. It is a sense of contentment that transcends circumstances, reminding us that our hope is found in something greater than what the world offers.
Peace, another fruit of the Spirit, is a state of tranquility and harmony that surpasses understanding. It is the calm assurance that we are anchored in God’s steadfast love and guidance. In times of turmoil, peace guards our hearts and minds, reminding us of God’s sovereignty and the assurance that He is in control.
Patience, the third inner reflection of the Spirit, is an attribute that grows with maturity. It is our capacity to endure and persevere in the face of trials, knowing that God is working all things for our good. Patience teaches us to trust in His perfect timing, rather than trying to rush or manipulate circumstances according to our own desires.
Together, joy, peace, and patience form a tapestry of inner strength and resilience. They are not dependent on external circumstances but are nurtured and cultivated by the Holy Spirit within us. As we surrender to the Spirit’s leading and allow His transformative work, these qualities become more evident in our lives, drawing others to the source of our joy, peace, and patience – Jesus Christ.
Kindness, Goodness, and Faithfulness – Expressions of God’s Nature
Kindness, goodness, and faithfulness are qualities that reflect the nature of God and are evident through the fruit of the Spirit. As Christians, we are called to emulate these attributes in our daily lives, as they reveal God’s character and bring honor to Him.
In a world that often values self-interest and personal gain, kindness stands out as a beacon of light and love. It is the act of extending grace and compassion to others, even when it is undeserved. Kindness is not just about being polite or nice; it goes deeper, touching the hearts of those we encounter and reminding them of God’s love for them.
Goodness goes hand in hand with kindness and is another quality that defines the fruit of the Spirit. It is the demonstration of moral excellence and righteousness. When we exhibit goodness, we are choosing to do what is right in the eyes of God, even when it is difficult or unpopular. Goodness is a reflection of God’s perfect nature, and it enables us to bring positive change to our world.
Faithfulness is a steadfastness and loyalty that characterizes God Himself. It is the commitment to keep our promises, to be trustworthy, and to remain devoted to God and His purposes. Through faithfulness, we demonstrate our deep-rooted trust in God and His faithfulness towards us. It is a fruit of the Spirit that helps us navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life with confidence and assurance.
As we cultivate kindness, goodness, and faithfulness through the power of the Holy Spirit, we not only reflect God’s nature but also become agents of transformation in the lives of those around us. These qualities have the power to touch hearts, bring healing, and inspire others to seek a relationship with God. Let us embrace and nurture the fruit of the Spirit in our lives, allowing God’s love to flow through us and impact the world.
In Summary:
- Kindness, goodness, and faithfulness reflect God’s nature.
- Kindness is the act of extending grace and compassion to others.
- Goodness is the demonstration of moral excellence and righteousness.
- Faithfulness is steadfastness and loyalty that characterizes God.
Embracing these qualities not only honors God but also brings transformation and hope to our world.
| Fruit of the Spirit | Related Attributes |
|---|---|
| Love | Selflessness, sacrificial |
| Joy | Inner gladness, contentment |
| Peace | Harmony, tranquility |
| Patience | Endurance, forbearance |
| Kindness | Compassion, grace |
| Goodness | Moral excellence, righteousness |
| Faithfulness | Loyalty, commitment |
| Gentleness | Humility, meekness |
| Self-control | Mastery, discipline |
Gentleness and Self-control – Exercising Christ’s Character
Gentleness and self-control are essential qualities that enable believers to embody the character of Christ through the fruit of the Spirit. As we continue our exploration of the fruit of the Spirit, we come to these two virtues that play a significant role in our interactions with others and our own personal growth.
Gentleness, often described as meekness or humility, is the ability to respond with kindness and compassion, even in challenging situations. It is the opposite of harshness or aggression, reflecting Christ’s gentle nature. When we exhibit gentleness, we demonstrate a calm and peaceful demeanor, treating others with respect and understanding.
Self-control, on the other hand, is the ability to restrain ourselves from harmful or impulsive behaviors. It involves mastering our desires, emotions, and actions through the power of the Holy Spirit. Self-control enables us to make wise choices, resist temptations, and align our lives with God’s principles. It is a vital aspect of living out the fruit of the Spirit, as it demonstrates our obedience and submission to God’s will.
By cultivating gentleness and self-control, we not only reflect Christ’s character but also create an environment of peace and harmony around us. These qualities enable us to navigate conflicts with grace, respond to adversity with patience, and make decisions that honor God. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, we can develop gentleness and self-control as fruits that manifest in our lives, positively impacting our relationships and personal growth.
Gentleness and self-control are crucial in our journey of faith. They enable us to love others unconditionally, speak truth with kindness, and resist the temptations of the world. Without gentleness, we may become harsh, judgmental, and unloving. Without self-control, we may give in to impulsive decisions, indulge in harmful behaviors, and compromise our integrity.
As believers, we are called to imitate Christ in all aspects of our lives. Gentleness and self-control reflect His character and enable us to walk in His footsteps. They are not signs of weakness but of inner strength and trust in God’s guidance. By exercising gentleness and self-control, we demonstrate our commitment to living a life that honors and glorifies God.
| Gentleness | Self-control |
|---|---|
| Responding with kindness and compassion | Mastering desires and impulses |
| Reflecting Christ’s gentle nature | Aligning our lives with God’s principles |
| Creating a peaceful and respectful environment | Making wise choices and resisting temptations |
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” – Galatians 5:22-23
As we strive to grow in our faith, let us embrace gentleness and self-control as essential qualities that enable us to become more like Christ. Through the work of the Holy Spirit within us, we can develop these fruits and embody the character of Christ in our thoughts, words, and actions.
Nurturing the Fruit of the Spirit in Everyday Life
Cultivating the fruit of the Spirit requires intentional actions and practices in the context of everyday life. It is not merely a passive process, but rather an active pursuit that involves aligning our thoughts, attitudes, and actions with the qualities described in Galatians 5:22-23. Here are some practical ways to nurture the fruit of the Spirit in our daily lives:
- Be intentional in cultivating love: Love is the foundational quality of the fruit of the Spirit. We can nurture love by showing kindness, forgiveness, and compassion to others. Let us strive to love unconditionally and extend grace even when it is challenging.
- Cultivate a spirit of joy and gratitude: Choose to focus on the positive aspects of life, even amidst difficulties. Practice gratitude by intentionally expressing thankfulness for the blessings in your life. Let joy and gratitude permeate your interactions with others, spreading positivity and encouragement.
- Seek inner peace through prayer and meditation: Take time to connect with God in prayer and meditation. Invite the Holy Spirit to fill you with peace that transcends circumstances. When faced with challenges or conflicts, seek God’s wisdom and guidance, allowing His peace to guide your responses.
- Exercise patience and self-control: Practice patience in moments of frustration or impatience. Choose to respond calmly rather than react impulsively. Develop self-control by resisting temptations and maintaining discipline in areas of your life that require it.
“The fruit of the Spirit is the result of intentional cultivation in the soil of everyday life.”
Nurturing the fruit of the Spirit requires consistency and perseverance. It is not an overnight transformation, but rather a lifelong journey of growth and maturity. As we consistently practice these qualities, the Holy Spirit works within us, producing a transformation that reflects the image of Christ.
Let us be intentional in cultivating the fruit of the Spirit in our everyday lives, knowing that as we do so, we become vessels of God’s love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. May our lives be a testimony to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and an inspiration to those around us.
Embracing the fruit of the Spirit is a catalyst for personal and spiritual growth as believers align their lives with God’s purposes. As we allow the Holy Spirit to work in us, we begin to exhibit the qualities of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These fruits not only reflect God’s character but also transform us from the inside out.
One way to embrace the fruit of the Spirit is by actively cultivating these qualities in our daily lives. This requires intentional effort and a willingness to surrender to the leading of the Holy Spirit. It starts by recognizing areas in our lives where we fall short and asking God to help us grow in those areas. Through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and the support of fellow believers, we can nurture and develop the fruit of the Spirit.
Another crucial aspect of embracing the fruit of the Spirit is to understand that it is a lifelong journey. It takes time and practice to consistently exhibit these qualities in every circumstance. It’s important to remember that growth is not always linear, and we may face setbacks along the way. However, with perseverance and reliance on the Holy Spirit, we can continue to grow and mature spiritually.
In embracing the fruit of the Spirit, we not only experience personal transformation but also become a testimony to others. Our lives become a living example of God’s love and grace, drawing others to Him. As we strive to exhibit the fruit of the Spirit, we become vessels through which God can work to bring about His purposes in the world.
| Fruit of the Spirit | Scripture Reference |
|---|---|
| Love | Galatians 5:22 |
| Joy | Galatians 5:22 |
| Peace | Galatians 5:22 |
| Patience | Galatians 5:22 |
| Kindness | Galatians 5:22 |
| Goodness | Galatians 5:22 |
| Faithfulness | Galatians 5:22 |
| Gentleness | Galatians 5:22 |
| Self-control | Galatians 5:23 |
Embracing the fruit of the Spirit is not just a personal endeavor but a key component of our spiritual growth. It shapes us into the image of Christ and enables us to impact the world around us. Let us continually seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance and allow Him to produce His fruit in our lives.
The fruit of the Spirit holds significant meaning and serves as a guide for believers to live a life that is transformed and reflective of God’s character. As mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23, the fruit of the Spirit consists of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities are not mere virtues that Christians strive to possess, but rather, they are the result of the Holy Spirit’s active work in their lives.
Through the Holy Spirit’s transformative power, believers are enabled to progressively exhibit more of these fruits in their daily lives. The internal struggle between the sinful nature and the new nature given by Christ is a constant battle, but with the Holy Spirit’s help, believers can overcome the desires of the flesh and allow the fruit of the Spirit to blossom in their hearts and actions.
The fruit of the Spirit is not just a list of desirable qualities, but it reflects the very nature of God. It is through the fruit of the Spirit that believers can express God’s love, kindness, and faithfulness to the world. These qualities are the outflow of a heart that has been transformed by the Holy Spirit’s work.
Therefore, nurturing the fruit of the Spirit is not merely a religious practice but a way of life that encompasses every aspect of our being. By embracing and embodying the fruit of the Spirit, believers can experience spiritual growth and become more like Christ. It is through the fruit of the Spirit that we can truly reflect God’s character and make a positive impact on the world around us.
FAQ
Q: What is the fruit of the Spirit?
A: The fruit of the Spirit, as mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23, includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities are the result of the Holy Spirit’s work in a Christian’s life.
Q: What is the role of the Holy Spirit in producing the fruit of the Spirit?
A: The Holy Spirit’s role is to transform believers into the image of Christ by producing the fruit of the Spirit. It is through the power of the Holy Spirit that these qualities are cultivated and exhibited in a believer’s life.
Q: How does the fruit of the Spirit differ from the acts of the sinful nature?
A: The fruit of the Spirit is in contrast to the acts of the sinful nature. While the sinful nature leads to destructive behavior and separates us from God, the fruit of the Spirit reflects the character of Christ and brings forth positive and life-giving attributes.
Q: Can believers progressively exhibit more of the fruit of the Spirit in their lives?
A: Yes, with the help of the Holy Spirit, believers can progress in exhibiting more of the fruit of the Spirit in their lives. It is a lifelong journey of growth and transformation, with the desire to become more Christ-like.
Q: How can believers nurture the fruit of the Spirit in everyday life?
A: Believers can nurture the fruit of the Spirit in everyday life by cultivating a deep relationship with God through prayer, studying the Word, and relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength. It involves consciously making choices that align with the values and qualities of the fruit of the Spirit.
Q: What is the significance of love as the foundation of the fruit of the Spirit?
A: Love is the foundational quality of the fruit of the Spirit. It is the selfless and unconditional love that Christ has for us and that believers are called to demonstrate towards others. Love is the driving force behind the other qualities of the fruit of the Spirit.
Q: How do joy, peace, and patience reflect the inner reflections of the Spirit?
A: Joy, peace, and patience are inner attributes that are produced by the Holy Spirit within a believer. Joy is a deep sense of contentment and gladness in God, peace brings a sense of calmness and harmony in the midst of challenges, and patience is the ability to endure and persevere with a steadfast and gracious attitude.
Q: What do kindness, goodness, and faithfulness represent in the fruit of the Spirit?
A: Kindness, goodness, and faithfulness are expressions of God’s nature through the fruit of the Spirit. Kindness is showing compassion and generosity towards others, goodness is moral excellence and virtue, and faithfulness is the reliability and loyalty in fulfilling commitments.
Q: What is the significance of gentleness and self-control in the fruit of the Spirit?
A: Gentleness and self-control are attributes that demonstrate Christ’s character through the fruit of the Spirit. Gentleness is the ability to respond with meekness and humility, especially in difficult situations, and self-control is the discipline and mastery over one’s desires and actions.
Q: How does embracing the fruit of the Spirit contribute to spiritual growth?
A: Embracing and embodying the fruit of the Spirit leads to spiritual growth. It involves surrendering to the work of the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to shape and mold us into the likeness of Christ. As we grow in the fruit of the Spirit, our relationship with God deepens, and we become more effective in our service to others.
