Author Topic: The Fruit of the Spirit  (Read 43542 times)

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Mimi

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #60 on: October 22, 2012, 08:09:11 AM »
By daily surrendering our will to His. It is a continual "abiding" that keeps us there. The last time I tried to walk on water in my own power, I fell and began to drown. My eyes were momentarily diverted and the dreadful acknowledgement of sinking overwhelmed me. To regain life that can only come through Him, confession, forgiveness through pardon (justification) had to occur. Finally reconciliation and acceptance was mine and there was peace restored and a lesson learned that of myself, I can do nothing. 
  For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalm 119:89 

Mimi

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #61 on: October 22, 2012, 08:13:18 AM »
Galatians 5:22, 23:  But the fruit of the Spirit is ... faith!

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1.

The life of a Christian is one based upon faith, faith in what the Bible says is true through its pages of recorded history giving evidence of its validity. Faith is strengthened through observing His great creation that we can touch, feel and see and it is but one expression of His great love for His created beings; faith in the ear that hears the words of the prophets foretelling His birth, death and resurrection, prophetic words outlining things to come that were fulfilled, compounding our faith in things “yet to come” in their order (Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. Rom. 10:17); faith that motivates the feet to run toward the mark of the prize that is an incorruptible crown and life everlasting with the very One who paid the penalty for sin with His life when it should have been the fate of mankind; and, faith that the hand when outreached to the Savior is grasped in loving assurance.

This kind of faith is not blind. It is not shallow. It is “evidence” (Hebrews 11:1) based upon a knowledge of God for us all who respond to, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. It is lived out in the life of one converted through the tremendous power of grace that transforms the life.

Let us discuss this fruit of the Spirit, faith.   
  For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalm 119:89 

Mimi

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #62 on: October 23, 2012, 06:14:05 AM »
When thinking of this fruit – faith, one man in particular comes to mind, Abraham.


Heb_11:8  By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.

This man could not go “by faith” unless he first trusted God explicitly. How is it with us?

Heb_11:17  By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,

And this, a most excruciating test of his faith in God, was carried out notwithstanding the promises of God to this man. Abraham did not argue with the command, but obeyed by faith. Again, how is it with us?   
  For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalm 119:89 

Glen

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #63 on: October 23, 2012, 06:34:59 AM »
And the fruit of the Spirit is ... longsuffering. In Christ, what does it mean to be longsuffering?

What is the genre of our "abiding" in Christ?
....ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. Mark 13:13

Many fix their eyes upon the terrible wickedness existing around them, the apostasy and weakness on every side, and they talk of these things until their hearts are filled with sadness and doubt. They keep uppermost before the mind the masterly working of the archdeceiver and dwell upon the discouraging features of their experience, while they seem to lose sight of the heavenly Father’s power and His matchless love. All this is as Satan would have it. It is a mistake to think of the enemy of righteousness as clothed with so great power, when we dwell so little upon the love of God and His might. We must talk of the mightiness of Christ. We are utterly powerless to rescue ourselves from the grasp of Satan; but God has appointed a way of escape. The Son of the Highest has strength to fight the battle for us, and “through Him that loved us” we may come off “more than conquerors.” Testimony Treasures Volume 2, p. 338.1

There is no spiritual strength for us in constantly brooding over our weakness and backslidings, and bemoaning the power of Satan. This great truth must be established as a living principle in our minds and hearts—the efficacy of the offering made for us; that God can and does save to the uttermost all who come unto Him complying with the conditions specified in His word. Our work is to place our will on the side of God’s will.... Testimony Treasures Volume 2, p. 338.2

“Enter ye in at the strait gate.... Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” When Christ spoke these words, many of his hearers were convinced of his doctrine, but they needed to be aroused to greater earnestness in regard to their eternal welfare. They had come to the place where two roads met, the wrong one apparently the most attractive. They had good desires, but they were not wholly decided to serve God. They followed the Saviour “afar off.” The world’s Redeemer saw their peril, and sought to rouse them to a realization of their danger. He longed to see them making an entire surrender to God. It pained him to see them living in a state of indecision.

The reason why the Bridegroom delays is because He is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. O the precious longsuffering of our merciful Saviour! O that each of the dear youth would appreciate the value of the soul that has been purchased at infinite cost on Calvary! O that each one would place a proper estimate upon the capabilities that have been given him of God! Through Christ you may climb the ladder of progress, and bring every power under the control of Jesus.... In spirit, in thought, in word, and in action, you may make manifest that you are moved by the Spirit of Christ, and your life may wield a power of influence over others.

To determine how great a matter is involved in the conversion of a soul from error to truth, we must appreciate the value of immortality, we must sense the pains of the second death. We must comprehend the honors and glory awaiting the ransomed, and understand what it is to live in the presence of Him who died that He might elevate, ennoble, and give to the overcomer a royal diadem. The Upward Look 63.5

The worth of a soul cannot be fully estimated. How gratefully will the ransomed and glorified ones remember those who were instrumental in their salvation. Not one will forget his self-denying labors, his persevering efforts, his patience, perseverance, and earnest heart yearning for these souls who might have been lost to Jesus Christ, had he neglected his duty or became weary in well doing.—Manuscript 1, February 18, 1880, “Church Difficulties.” The Upward Look 63.6


As the Believer enters into and is baptized in the likeness of Christ's death, the "allurements", the enticements", of Satan lose their grasp on the heart, the affections. There is engendered within the humble, the contrite soul a burning hatred for Sin(s) in consort with the certain agony of God's Spirit to see those reconciled, who are yet in their sins. To be "longsuffering in Christ", is to so identify with Him in His

Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; 2 That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. 1 Peter 4:1, 2

Armed with the mind of Christ, the Believer enters into the suffering of Christ in the flesh, is filled with the same Spirit that filled Christ as He struggled as a man in our human nature, not His divine nature, (See Manuscript Releases Volume Fourteen [Nos. 1081-1135], Page 334.1); so deeply and thoroughly blended in suffering long motive and action, resisting; as it were, ....unto blood, striving against sin. Hebrews 12:4 For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. 12 So then death worketh in us, but life in (those we labor for).2 Corinthians 4:11, 12

The great and glorious work committed to us in acting a part in the plan of salvation is wonderfully high and exalted. We cannot weigh its merits. We are to walk by faith; and as we strive to appreciate the possibilities, and realize the immensity of the plan of salvation, it is our privilege to pray with the apostle Paul that we may be able to “comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge” (Ephesians 3:18). Lift Him up, the Man of Calvary. Let the mind dwell upon the beauties of His character until by beholding you become changed into the same image. A life of prayer and faith will lead us to speak of His praise and tell of His power.... In Heavenly Places 248.1

Those who have access to God through Christ have important work before them. Now is the time to lay hold of the arm of our strength. The prayer of David should be the prayer of pastors and laymen: “It is time for Thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void Thy law.” Psalm 119:126. Let the servants of the Lord weep between the porch and the altar, crying: “Spare Thy people, O Lord, and give not Thine heritage to reproach.” Joel 2:17. God has always wrought for His people in their greatest extremity, when there seemed the least hope that ruin could be averted. The designs of wicked men, the enemies of the church, are subject to His power and overruling providence. He can move upon the hearts of statesmen; the wrath of the turbulent and disaffected, the haters of God, His truth, and His people can be turned aside, even as the rivers of water are turned, if He orders it thus. Prayer moves the arm of Omnipotence. He who marshals the stars in order in the heavens, whose word controls the waves of the great deep, the same infinite Creator will work in behalf of His people if they call upon Him in faith. He will restrain the forces of darkness until the warning is given to the world and all who will heed it are prepared for the conflict. Testimony Treasures Volume 1 34.2


Christ in (the Believer)

....shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. Isaiah 53:11
...Jesus...will live through (YOU), giving (YOU) the inspiration of His sanctifying Spirit, imparting to (YOUR) soul a vital transfusion of Himself. Sabbath-School Worker 02-01-96.03  ...as the blood

Mimi

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #64 on: October 23, 2012, 07:18:45 PM »
Amen! You brought in so many good points, Glen, of us, partakers of the divine nature, so associated with the heart of Christ, that we too are longsuffering toward others just as He was while in the flesh on earth, and continues to be as our High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary. This grace, as all other fruit of the Spirit, grows naturally upon the good tree of divine planting.

And I cannot leave this post without acknowledging your quote of Romans 12:4. As a new Christian, pre-baptism, my teacher stressed the importance of that verse. It is not only important because it begins an admonishment, but in light of the three verses preceding it. Why would we not suffer unto blood against sin? The reasons are laid out before us.

Heb 12:1  Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
Heb 12:2  Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Heb 12:3  For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.
Heb 12:4  Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.


We should contemplate those four verses every day of our lives. Thank you for pointing us to it once more.
  For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalm 119:89 

Richard Myers

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #65 on: October 24, 2012, 08:37:00 AM »
Amen!  How many consider it that important to strive against sin? We do not consider sin to be that grievous. But, if we beheld Jesus suffering on the cross because of sin, would we not learn to hate it? Would we not want to cease crucifying Christ afresh? We do not spend enough time contemplating the life of Christ, especially the closing scenes. If we did, we would view sin in a completely different manner. We would cease making excuses for it. There are none. Christ has provided at great expense a remedy for the sin sick soul.
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

Mimi

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #66 on: October 24, 2012, 01:31:25 PM »
Let’s take a closer look at the faith of Abraham. By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. Hebrews 11:8.

This is said of the faith of Abraham:

Abraham's unquestioning obedience is one of the most striking evidences of faith to be found in all the Bible. . . . It was no light test that was thus brought upon Abraham, no small sacrifice that was required of him. There were strong ties to bind him to his country, his kindred, and his home. But he did not hesitate to obey the call. He had no question to ask concerning the land of promise--whether the soil was fertile and the climate healthful; whether the country afforded agreeable surroundings and would afford opportunities for amassing wealth. God had spoken, and His servant must obey; the happiest place on earth for him was the place where God would have him to be.

Mark the last sentence! He didn’t care where he was being led! The foremost desire of his heart was to be wherever God would have him. He knew God and trusted Him with every single aspect of his life. He had not one question, he had not one hesitation. He went out … by faith.

Would it be so with us? What arrangements would we first have to make prior to considering such a command? Many hundreds of years later, Christ said, “Follow me,” and some being called had to first take care of a new bride while another had to first bury a relative. Yet another had to tend to his lands, and still others had more excuses. “By faith” was not only inconvenient but it was also a scary proposition filled with unknowns.

For 21st century Christians, filled with the Spirit – possessing all of the fruit of the Spirit as converted followers of Lord Jesus, how is faith playing out in our daily lives?   
  For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalm 119:89 

Glen

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #67 on: October 25, 2012, 06:32:13 AM »
....your quote of Romans 12:4....

With my quote of Hebrews 12:4  Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.

-I also wanted to bring out that as ....Jesus (....in the likeness of sinful flesh.... Romans 8:3) increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man. Luke 2:52 , the lessons learned at His mother's knee in the truths of God's kingdom of love, nurtured and developed His revulsion of sin, which deepened and widened to a holy, perfect enmity (Genesis 3:15). This is the privilege of the Believer, as His Holy Spirit, with the Shekinah glory, dwells and ABIDES in the soul-temple.

As Believers continually, daily take up their cross, the Holy Spirit broadening their comprehension of the horror of their guilt and they ("sense the pains of the second death" The Upward Look 63.5), the "fall-out"of disloyalty to God, - -the realization of their utter dependance upon God for His great Atonement and their individual sanctification deepens. Their whole motive in life is transfigured and transformed; they stand in the cleft of the Rock, beholding the glory of His Name, totally preoccupied with LOVE at it's best; they forever seek no longer for something else.


For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: 6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. Romans 6:5, 6

While their abhorrence of the degradation and sinfulness of their fallen nature matures, their humble eagerness for, acceptance,  and impartation to them, of the Christ-life, is manifested moment by moment, and they are raised far above the weaknesses of the fallen human nature, overcome the foibles, the propensities, the besetting sins of  the past.

For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. 2 Corinthians 4:11

Jesus says: "I am the way, the truth, and the life...." If you will make room for Jesus, and cleanse the soul from the defilement of sin, you may enjoy perfect peace with God. But some will ask, How am I to do this? By an entire surrender of your will and your way to God. The peace of God will not rule in your hearts while you retain your worldly ambitions and indulgences. The passions that have held possession of the soul must be removed. When we profess the truth, it is our privilege and duty to show to the world that it has had a transforming power upon the life and character. The Signs of the Times 08-06-85.5

As souls born again, as our high and exalted birthright, we are never to venture to stoop to anything low, cheap, or questionable, never to be found in suspicious places, never to let our good be evil spoken of. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so much higher, purer, nobler, should be a Christian's ways above those of the sinner. Never need we apologize to the world because we dare to DO RIGHTEOUSNESS. Manuscript Releases Volume Eighteen 279.01
...Jesus...will live through (YOU), giving (YOU) the inspiration of His sanctifying Spirit, imparting to (YOUR) soul a vital transfusion of Himself. Sabbath-School Worker 02-01-96.03  ...as the blood

Mimi

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #68 on: October 25, 2012, 06:42:24 AM »
Amen! And how closely tied is this to Romans 7 & 8, Genesis 3:15, Justification by Faith, and Abide in Me and I in You? It is woven into the very fabric of each of these topics. What a privilege it is to examine these topics as did the faithful Bereans.
  For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalm 119:89 

Mimi

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #69 on: December 01, 2012, 06:53:19 AM »
A few more thoughts on faith before we move on to the next fruit, meekness. This is from that tremendous book on the life of Christ, The Desire of Ages:

To talk of religion in a casual way, to pray without soul hunger and living faith, avails nothing. A nominal faith in Christ, which accepts Him merely as the Saviour of the world, can never bring healing to the soul. The faith that is unto salvation is not a mere intellectual assent to the truth. He who waits for entire knowledge before he will exercise faith, cannot receive blessing from God. It is not enough to believe about Christ; we must believe in Him. The only faith that will benefit us is that which embraces Him as a personal Saviour; which appropriates His merits to ourselves. Many hold faith as an opinion. Saving faith is a transaction by which those who receive Christ join themselves in covenant relation with God. Genuine faith is life. A living faith means an increase of vigor, a confiding trust, by which the soul becomes a conquering power.  - The Desire of Ages, page 347.
  For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalm 119:89 

Glen

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #70 on: December 01, 2012, 08:15:08 AM »
....The only faith that will benefit us is that which embraces Him as a personal Saviour; which appropriates His merits to ourselves. Many hold faith as an opinion. Saving faith is a transaction by which those who receive Christ join themselves in covenant relation with God. Genuine faith is life. A living faith means an increase of vigor, a confiding trust, by which the soul becomes a conquering power.  - The Desire of Ages, page 347.

....bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. 2 Corinthians 4:10

Simultaneous impartation of the Holy Spirit in the family and in the church, which is the impartation of the life of Christ; manifests expressly genuine good works of godly righteousness, deflecting many a misunderstanding, hard and critical feelings, resulting in schism and separation. While each of us go about our daily "walk", "being saved", we will ....in lowliness of mind....each esteem other better than themselves. Philippians 2:3 -and will ....esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among (ourselves). 1 Thessalonians 5:13

....If we wish to do good to souls, our success with these souls will be in proportion to their belief in our belief in, and appreciation of, them. Respect shown to the struggling human soul is the sure means through Christ Jesus of the restoration of the self-respect the man has lost.... Fundamentals of Christian Education 280.01

While we may individually so sincerely dedicate ourselves to the Lord on any or every given day, one or many others may view us as the laziest, least "deserving", or "worthy" of their love and respect. It is our privilege and duty before God, in HIS eyes, to keep on keeping on, humbly, steadily keeping our eyes upon Him, by faith perseveringly taking up the duties of each day. Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that (we) are thereunto called, that (we) should inherit a blessing.  1 Peter 3:9

The formation of character is the work of a lifetime, and it is for eternity.... The Youth’s Instructor, February 19, 1903.

The knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ expressed in character....is the very highest education. It is the very key that opens to us the portals of heaven, that we may obtain eternal life, an immortal inheritance, and eternal substance. All who have this knowledge are constantly advancing heavenward. They have a good report in their own family, in the church, and in the world. Manuscript Releases Volume Six 165.02


....pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. James 5:16

Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) 24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works.... Hebrews 10:23, 24

....that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting. 1 Timothy 1:16


It is our privilege to have the witness of the Spirit that our ways please God. We should not be satisfied unless we have this evidence. We must be pure in heart, and our works must be wrought in God. We need the special working of the Spirit of God upon our hearts. All the profession of the truth that we can make will be of no avail to us unless we have Christ abiding with us. We have altogether too little faith and firm reliance upon God.  Sermons and Talks Volume Two, p. 20.3

We are in days of trial, and the adversary of souls is upon our track. While we stand out separate from the world, how tenderly we should press close together in faith, in love doing one another good. United we are strong, divided we are weak....  Sermons and Talks Volume Two, p. 20.4

...Jesus...will live through (YOU), giving (YOU) the inspiration of His sanctifying Spirit, imparting to (YOUR) soul a vital transfusion of Himself. Sabbath-School Worker 02-01-96.03  ...as the blood

Richard Myers

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #71 on: December 01, 2012, 12:35:10 PM »
While we may individually so sincerely dedicate ourselves to the Lord on any or every given day, one or many others may view us as the laziest, least "deserving", or "worthy" of their love and respect. It is our privilege and duty before God, in HIS eyes, to keep on keeping on, humbly, steadily keeping our eyes upon Him, by faith perseveringly taking up the duties of each day. Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that (we) are thereunto called, that (we) should inherit a blessing.  1 Peter 3:9

The formation of character is the work of a lifetime, and it is for eternity.... The Youth’s Instructor, February 19, 1903.

The knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ expressed in character....is the very highest education. It is the very key that opens to us the portals of heaven, that we may obtain eternal life, an immortal inheritance, and eternal substance. All who have this knowledge are constantly advancing heavenward. They have a good report in their own family, in the church, and in the world. Manuscript Releases Volume Six 165.02

We are in days of trial, and the adversary of souls is upon our track. While we stand out separate from the world, how tenderly we should press close together in faith, in love doing one another good. United we are strong, divided we are weak....  Sermons and Talks Volume Two, p. 20.4



There are two sides to this difficulty. One, is experiencing great hardships because of God's leading, the other, is experiencing hardships when we have put ourselves into the difficult situation without God's leading. This can be a very difficult matter to sort out at times because we believe we are following counsel. It may appear that way, but in many cases it was not God that led into the wilderness.

An example will be beneficial for those who do not understand. The counsel we have been given is to move into the country. This is very good counsel, but it does not stand alone. There is always more. If all who read this counsel to move to the country did so today, many would be left without means of support and no place to live for very long. Winter comes and now how do we heat the house? God did not mean for all to pick up and move to the country without praying and preparing.

I know of cases where some have moved out in faith. God wants us to walk by faith, but it must be an intelligent faith based upon His Word, our prayers, and His leading. If one does not work, he does not eat. So, to move away from one's place of employment expecting God to provide when He did not lead us to move at that particular time will create a situation that God did not intend. God will indeed provide for us when we are walking in the light of His counsel and in His Spirit. He will lead us day by day.

When the rent is not paid, the cupboards are bare, and the wood supply is gone, then what? If a man does not work, he does not eat. So, provision has to be made for our sustenance by hard labor. Is there an example of when this is not the case? Yes, the minister called of God is to be provided for by the church. If one is called to full time ministry, then he is to give up the fishing boat and to be a fisher of men. But, there is even more counsel here. Paul labored with his hands and made tents so that he would not be looked upon as "lazy" and depending up the ones he was helping for his support. He did not want the good he did to be seen as selfish in any manner.

Often there are men who believe they are called of God to full time ministry when He has not called them. They put themselves and their family in situations that God did not intend. The family suffers for want because God did not support the endeavor. The only solution that we all have is to be completely surrendered to Jesus and praying day by day that we might know of His will. If we are willing to follow His leading in every detail that we understand, God will not leave us ignorant of our duty. He will tell us by many means just which way we are to go and when we are to move.

When in Romania, just a year after their revolution, I was impressed to encourage our brethren that the counsel we have is to move out of the cities into the country. At a meeting in one of our churches, I expressed that this is the counsel we have been given. But, to leave it there would have created great difficulties for many. I further explained that I understood that for many it was impossible to do so. Most of the population lived in eight story apartment complexes the Russians had built while the people lived under Communist rule. Now they were free, but had no means to purchase a home in the country. I explained that if they would pray for God to help them move, that He would open the door when the time was right. We must not run ahead of the Lord. Instead of being two steps in front of Him, we must remain one step behind Him. This will alleviate many problems faced by those who are zealous to do His will.
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

Mimi

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #72 on: December 08, 2012, 08:44:20 AM »
And the fruit of the Spirit is ... meekness.

In Christ, what does it mean to be meek? What does the Bible teach of meekness and how are we to become meek?

  • Jesus was meek and lowly of heart. In the cluster of Christian graces, he made meekness and humility prominent.
  • Moses was the meekest man on earth.
  • John, a son of thunder, was meek.
  • Daniel was meek.
  • Enoch was meek and perfected a Christian character amid exceeding corruption and wickedness
  • The "meek" will inherit the earth.

What does it mean to be meek?

A hint: When we possess true meekness and lowliness we are so lost in Christ that we do not take neglect or slights to heart; we are deaf to reproach and blind to scorn and insult.

  For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalm 119:89 

Glen

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #73 on: December 09, 2012, 06:15:16 AM »
The Believer may meet the temptations of the enemy (satan) unflinchingly.

By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, 8 By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true; 9 As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; 10 As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things. 2 Corinthians 6:7-10

The life of God  was manifested in the flesh, and was the living word, and the life of God was manifested in human speech. The human agent who becomes familiar with the Scriptures and who is a doer of the Word, will find that the Word is interwoven with the life of the soul; for he will have a personal experience in the things of God… When surrounded with temptations, the Holy Spirit will bring to his mind the very words with which to meet the temptation at the very moment when they are most needed, and he can use them effectually with commanding power. The apostle says, "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly… The Signs of the Times 09-05-95.03

He who cannot resist temptation, when every facility for overcoming has been placed within his reach, is not registered in the books of heaven as a man. Temperence 189.3

“Dare to be a Daniel, dare to stand alone!” Have courage to do the right. A cowardly and silent reserve before evil associates, while you listen to their devices, makes you one with them. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate,  Temperence 189.4

Moral Courage Needed—At all times and on all occasions it requires moral courage to adhere to the principles of strict temperance. We may expect that by following such a course we shall surprise those who do not totally abstain from all stimulants; but how are we to carry forward the work of reform if we conform to the injurious habits and practices of those with whom we associate? … Temperence 190.1

In the name and strength of Jesus every youth may conquer the enemy today on the point of perverted appetite. My dear young friends, advance step by step, until all your habits shall be in harmony with the laws of life and health. He who overcame in the wilderness of temptation declares: “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne.”—The Youth’s Instructor, July 16, 1903; Temperence 190.2
...Jesus...will live through (YOU), giving (YOU) the inspiration of His sanctifying Spirit, imparting to (YOUR) soul a vital transfusion of Himself. Sabbath-School Worker 02-01-96.03  ...as the blood

Mimi

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #74 on: January 02, 2013, 07:17:18 AM »
Let's look at the word "meekness" as found in Scripture.

Quote from: Psa 45:4 KJV
  And in thy majesty ride prosperously because of truth and meekness and righteousness; and thy right hand shall teach thee terrible things.

Quote from: Zep 2:3 KJV
  Seek ye the LORD, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the LORD'S anger.

Quote from: 1Cor 4:21 KJV
  What will ye? shall I come unto you with a rod, or in love, and in the spirit of meekness?

Quote from: 2Cor 10:1 KJV
  Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:

Quote from: Gal 5:23 KJV
  Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

Quote from: Gal 6:1 KJV
  Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

Quote from: Eph 4:2 KJV
  With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;

Quote from: Col 3:12 KJV
  Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

Quote from: 1Ti 6:11 KJV
  But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

Quote from: 2Ti 2:25 KJV
  In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

Quote from: Tit 3:2 KJV
  To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.

Quote from: Jas 1:21 KJV
  Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.

Quote from: Jas 3:13 KJV
  Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.

Quote from: 1Pe 3:15 KJV
  But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:


     A Bible dictionary gives the following definitions of meekness:

          Mild of temper; soft; gentle; not easily provoked or irritated; yielding; given to forbearance under injuries.

          Softness of temper; mildness; gentleness; forbearance under injuries and provocations.


How is our view of meekness skewed by how the world defines it? I am fearful we are more accepting of that definition rather than how Scripture defines it. What are your thoughts? 


  For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalm 119:89 

Richard Myers

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #75 on: January 02, 2013, 08:32:10 AM »
I think that we do tend to miss the point. As is usual, there are two ditches prepared for us on both sides of the road. Sybil, what difference do you see between the world's view and God's perfect principle of meekness?
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

Mimi

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #76 on: January 02, 2013, 09:08:48 AM »
I see a vast gulf between the two concepts.

Let's first look at the world's view. Meekness typically equates to weakness, lack of backbone, allowing others to run over us, a loser who ends up being last rather than first, and one who does not speak up to defend himself. In other words, someone who is so weak they allow themselves to be pushed around. The world thinks nice guys finish last.

Let's take a seemingly benign activity: competitive sports, humans against humans. Is it so benign when the object is to win, to crush the opponent? Where is meekness displayed in a competition against our fellow man? How about competition for the best high-paying job? Or the last red corvette on the dealer's lot? Or the last loaf of bread in the store?

A person lacking Bible meekness is righteous in his own eyes. Self drives him. He is better and more deserving than his brother. He has a haughty spirit.

Is this how you see it? 
 
  For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalm 119:89 

Richard Myers

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #77 on: January 02, 2013, 09:19:12 AM »

A person lacking Bible meekness is righteous in his own eyes. Self drives him. He is better and more deserving than his brother. He has a haughty spirit.

Amen! And there is no propensity to learn from another, no openess to being wrong. 


Quote
Let's take a seemingly benign activity: competitive sports, humans against humans. Is it so benign when the object is to win, to crush the opponent? Where is meekness displayed in a competition against our fellow man? How about competition for the best high-paying job? Or the last red corvette on the dealer's lot? Or the last loaf of bread in the store?

The picture is clearly before my mind. A "red corvette".  I can relate.  At one time in my life, I had a red convertible and a corvette. Little meekness in one who is living for self, apart from God. Even a weakling is devoid of true meekness.

Quote
Let's first look at the world's view. Meekness typically equates to weakness, lack of backbone, allowing others to run over us, a loser who ends up being last rather than first, and one who does not speak up to defend himself. In other words, someone who is so weak they allow themselves to be pushed around. The world thinks nice guys finish last.

Can meekness equate with being last rather than first? Can it be seen in one who refuses to defend himself, or one who is pushed around?
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

Mimi

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #78 on: January 02, 2013, 09:36:24 AM »
I too can relate to the little red sports car. A red MGB a meek spirit does not make. It elevates an already haughty spirit.  :(

The meek of the Bible does not care if he is first or last. His focus is not upon himself, for he considers God and others before all else. He is not strong in his own strength. He receives that from God and God alone, and is made much stronger because of it.

I believe we can bring a bountiful supply of Scripture, even some we may not realize has anything to do with meekness, to reveal meekness is a virtue spoken of much more often than we first thought. It begins with the Servant of servants, Christ Jesus, whose character revealed two things more prominently than others: meekness and humility. They are inextricably connected.

Here are but a few:

Matthew 5:44  But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

Matthew 19:30  But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.

Mark 9:35  And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.

Matthew 20:27  And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:

Matthew 23:11  But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.

Proverbs 16:18  Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

Isaiah 10:33  Behold, the Lord, the LORD of hosts, shall lop the bough with terror: and the high ones of stature shall be hewn down, and the haughty shall be humbled.

Romans 12:14  Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.

1Corinthians 1:27  But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;

2Corinthians 12:10  Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

James 4:10  Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

1Peter 5:6  Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

Zechariah 7:9  Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Execute true judgment, and shew mercy and compassions every man to his brother:

1John 3:17  But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?

1John 4:20  If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?
  For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalm 119:89 

Richard Myers

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Re: The Fruit of the Spirit
« Reply #79 on: January 03, 2013, 09:21:48 AM »
Amen!  Meekness can be seen when one refuses to be first, or is pushed around. Often we are tempted to argue against this. That we must defend our rights. When self is dead, we have given our rights over to Jesus and we will respond in a manner that He dictates, not in defense of self.   This can become a mystery to one who is not born of His Spirit. Jesus was pushed around when it came to defending Himself. But, let's look at another aspect of God's character which may be at odds with the worldly definition of meekness. We may be last, we may turn the other cheek and get clobbered again, but there are some things we will not yield up. Christ is our example in all things. The character of Christ, refused to allow His Father, our heavenly Father, to be spoken of in derision.  His Father Word, Jesus did not allow to be twisted and perverted. And, His life was taken from Him because He would not allow the murderers to think He was not the Son of God. Meekness does not mean that there is no strength of character. To the contrary. When a person has power to do something, and restrains himself rather than defend self, this is true meekness. Often, one may suffer great loss by not pointing out another's sin. This is meekness. Listening to one that is in error, seeking to understand their point of view is meekness. We are all erring humans and make mistakes. Meekness demands that we understand this and allow others to express their opinion. This does not mean that they are allowed to preach their error from the pulpit.

God is meek. Yet, He destroyed every living thing off the face of the earth by the flood. Only those on the ark and in the oceans were preserved. Meekness does not mean the surrender of principle. It is a revelation of self having been crucified. It is a revelation of love for our enemy.
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.