Fruit of the Spirit
Goodness
Doing what is right and good, even when nobody sees.
What this is
Goodness does what is right and actively does good to others: integrity in private, generosity in public. It reflects the goodness of God Himself.
Goodness doesn't look down on others, and it does more than avoid bad things. It steps in, overcomes evil with good and does the right thing when it costs.
No one is good apart from God, so this fruit comes from His Spirit, not your record. Obey in small things and do the good you already know to do.
In Jesus
Peter summed up Jesus' life: anointed with the Holy Spirit and power, He went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed (Acts 10:38).
When it's missing
compromise, cutting corners, looking away
My verses
Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith.
He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?
Love must be sincere. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good.
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light, for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth. Test and prove what pleases the Lord.
Anyone, then, who knows the right thing to do, yet fails to do it, is guilty of sin.
In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Where to next
- Do the good you knowDo one good thing this week that you've been putting off.
- Fix one compromiseName one area where you've been cutting corners: honesty, money, work. Put it right.
- Repay evil with goodWhen someone wrongs you this week, answer with a good action, not revenge or cold silence.
- Give something awayGive time, money or something you own to someone in need.
Tested most in
Pray
God, You alone are truly good. Make me good in private and in public. Help me overcome evil with good and not grow tired of doing what is right.