September 23
Joy as the
Fruit of the Spirit
Galatians 5:22-23
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Daily Steps
Having focused on the source of joy (Day 263) and the practice of rejoicing (Day 266), the new believer must understand where true joy originates in their life. This verse identifies joy not as a generated emotion, but as a guaranteed, external result of the Holy Spirit's work within us—it is fruit of the Spirit.
The peace in this principle is found in supernatural growth:
The Nature of Spiritual Fruit: The list begins with the evidence of a Spirit-filled life. Joy is listed alongside love (Day 217) and peace (Day 222). Like the other qualities, joy is a supernatural quality; it cannot be manufactured by human effort or willpower. It is a natural result of being abiding in Christ (Day 248).
The Source of Joy: The Holy Spirit (The Helper, Day 213) is the active agent in producing this fruit. This means that to increase our joy, we must focus on submission to and dependence (Day 248) on the Spirit's guidance, rather than trying to force happiness through external means.
The Result is Freedom: The final statement, Against such things there is no law, signifies profound spiritual freedom. Living a life characterized by this fruit ensures that the believer is operating in a realm of grace, integrity (Day 242), and holiness (Day 251) where they are protected from judgment, securing a life of lasting peace and freedom.
Your peace is secured by supernatural growth. Embrace the truth that joy is a fruit of the Spirit today. Focus on remaining in Christ and submitting to the Spirit, knowing that this dependence guarantees the overflow of divine delight in your life.
Reflective Question
If joy is a fruit of the Spirit, what conscious choice are you making today that may be grieving the Spirit and therefore hindering the growth of joy in your life? What is one way you can submit to the Spirit's direction right now?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my attempts to manufacture happiness through my own efforts. I thank You that joy is a fruit of the Spirit. I pray for the humility and discipline to submit to the Holy Spirit's guidance today. Secure my peace in the certainty that as I abide in Christ, Your Spirit will produce overflowing joy, peace, love, and self-control in my life. Amen.
