Reflections From Sunday Evening

A couple of thoughts from the past week.
I’ve been reading a biography of E. Stanley Jones. He was a Methodist missionary and evangelist. He also used his global reputation and acted as a statesman. He worked for Indian independence as well as working to avert WWII.
In one place he reflected, “I have no enemies because I have no enmity.”
I consider this worth emulating. To hold no enmity in our hearts against anyone is a true objective of the Christian life. No enmity, no enemies.
A second thought that relates to this focuses on the Fruit of the Spirit. If we desire no enmity we need a power greater than ourselves.  The Holy Spirit comes.  The Holy Spirit does much in and through our lives but drawing us to Jesus is vital. The Spirit then grows us in our relationship with Jesus. The best measure of spiritual growth is seen in fruitfulness. This is recognized by the Fruit of the Spirit.
 Love is THE fruit of the Spirit. Then comes joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
The more time spent with Jesus - the closer you stay to Jesus - the more fruit of the Spirit.
I pray my life be defined by the fruit of the Spirit.
Fruit of the Spirit developing in increasing measure means no enmity. No enmity no enemies. It seems like a life worthy of pursuit.
It’s been a good day. I hope you’ve had a good day too.
steve