We all tend to be impressed by competent people who get things done, but competence isn’t everything. A person’s character is of far greater significance. Indeed, a person who has enormous competence but who has a bad character is very dangerous, and their activity is likely to lead to disaster sooner or later.

Jesus’ words are wise ones and we need to listen to them carefully. Faithfulness is a key quality, and if someone has proved unable to be faithful in one area of life, it wouldn’t be surprising if they were unfaithful in other areas as well. If someone shows dishonesty in a trivial matter, it should come as no surprise if they are dishonest on a bigger scale as well. Our core character will determine how we live our lives, whether the issue is large or small or involves our family, business or church.

This all emphasises the importance of continually growing our Christian character. As we allow the Holy Spirit to direct our lives, our character will gradually change so that his fruit becomes increasingly evident in our lives – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). This fruit is amazing because it will last. It isn’t like normal fruit, which has a very short shelf life. Impressed as we may be by competent people, we all need to long for the amazing fruit of the Holy Spirit, which God loves to grow in our lives.

In what ways are you seeking to grow the fruit of the Spirit in your life?

Loving God, help me grow closer to you every day and welcome the changes that you are bringing about in my life by your Holy Spirit. Amen