The Father's Menu

The Father's Menu

Apostle Dr. Richard Udoh

Saturday, August 22, 2020

THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT – WHAT IS GOODNESS?

Paul lists the fruit of the Spirit. Fruit here means “beneficial results”, the good things that come from the Spirit’s indwelling. As the Holy Spirit works in our lives, our character changes. Where we harbored selfishness, cruelty, spite and rebelliousness, we now possess love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. All these reflect the very nature of God.

Goodness is virtue and holiness in action. It results in a life characterized by deeds motivated by righteousness and a desire to be a blessing. It’s a moral characteristic of a Spirit filled person. The Greek word goodness is “agathosune”. It translates to uprightness of heart and life. It is goodness for the benefit of others not goodness simply for the sake of being virtuous. Matthew 5:16

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (ESV)

Someone with agathosune will selflessly act on behalf of others. Confronting someone about a wrong act demonstrates goodness, in the same way, giving to the poor, visiting the sick are all expressions of goodness according to Proverbs 19:17 “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” (ESV) and Psalm 33:4-5 “For the word of the Lord is right, and all His work is done in truth. He loves righteousness and justice; The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.” (NKJV)

Our God is good and He desires that we grow in the Spirit to possess this fruit of goodness. Without the help of the Holy Spirit, we will get weary of doing good, however, when we submit the totality of our being to Him, we begin to act like God. 1 John 4:17 “This is how love is made perfect in us: that we can be without fear on the day God judges us, because in this world we are like him.” (NCV) 

Confession: The Spirit of truth abides in me, and teaches me all things and He guides me into all truths, therefore, I confess I have perfect knowledge of every situation and circumstance that I come up against. I have the wisdom of God now.

Further Readings:

Romans 15:14;

And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.

Ephesians 5:9;

For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth

Read through the Bible: 1 Samuel 14 & Romans 12