“So that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:10-11 (ESV)
Paul knew that wisdom and discernment can only come from a deep reverence and love for the Lord. This is why he prayed so fervently for the believers in Philippi. He wanted them to grow in their knowledge and make wise decisions that would ultimately glorify God. This would only be possible if they walked in step with the Holy Spirit.
The fruit of righteousness Paul is referring to is the fruit of the Spirit. In Galatians 5:22, he specifically states that those attributes of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These are qualities that every Christian should look to as they live a God-honoring life.
When we reflect on the qualities of Christ the man, we’re reminded of each of these fruit he embodied in the Bible. We read how he loved others and spread joy to those who were broken in spirit. We see him at peace despite the chaos that was always lurking around him. We’re reminded of the patience he had with his disciples and those who doubted him. We remember the kindness and mercy he extended to those he healed. We’re reminded of his goodness that day when he multiplied the five loaves and two fishes to feed thousands of hungry people that day who gathered to hear him teach. His faithfulness to his Father in heaven was on full display that day when he gave his life for us on the cross. We see his gentleness in the manner he dealt with sinners, never mocking or ridiculing but teaching and forgiving. We see the self-control he had while he was being tempted by satan in the wilderness just before his ministry began.
He did these things not as God, but as fully man. “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of servant, being made in human likeness.” – Philippians 2:6-7
Paul’s ultimate desire was to be Christlike, and he desperately encouraged the church in Philippi to have that same desire. But he knew this would only be possible for them through a deep, loving, and intimate relationship with Christ. He knew there would be challenges. He knew there would be times of doubt and uncertainty that lay ahead for them. But he also knew that the Spirit would guide them as long as they remained committed to following Christ and not their own hearts.
How is our fruit today? How are we doing in these areas of patience, kindness, goodness, and self-control?
Let us ask Jesus to fill us with His Spirit, to guide and empower us as we seek to cultivate these qualities in our daily lives. May our actions, words, and thoughts showcase the fruit of our salvation, bringing glory to God and inspiring others to seek Him. Amen.
Former Blackout Artist 