GraceWay D.C.

We come to the 9th attribute of the Fruit of the Spirit: temperance. It is much more than just restraining how much we drink. It means control in every area of life: food, drink, sleep, entertainment, friends...And though it is control of self, it is not possible by self. It's like this: the Holy Spirit won't without us, and we can't without the Holy Spirit.

Today we salute our veterans and thank God for their service and sacrifice for our country.We have the privilege to hear from one of our very own wartime veterans, Brig. Gen. John Teichert. As a leader of some of the world's top military bases, he has learned that honor, courage, and commitment began in a heart devoted to service. Christian, don't forget you too are in a spiritual fight that demands the same for you.

For the past several weeks we have seen grotesque displays of darkness on every hand. It's the best the world can do with the idea of death. But, look no further than the vibrant colors of the fall leaves to see another illustration of dying. Their beauty is breathtaking.This week's array reminds me of meekness, a death to self that sparkles with priceless grace. Yes, the "meek and lowly" Jesus leads us to the cross, but only to bring us to a liberated life.

FAITH is...you know the verse: substantive hope, evidence of the unseen. It is a gift, it must be cultivated, and it is a treasure to guard.

As we return to our series on the fruit of the Spirit we come to goodness. At first, I thought this would a simple study--I mean, how good could it get?

Join me in welcoming Pastor Jon Marshall of Hope Baptist in Toledo to preach for us today. Pastor Jon and his family have literally proven God's faithfulness "through the fire." I know every open heart will receive a blessing.

When you hear the label "gentle giant," an image of a massive man helping a weaker person may come to your mind. If you refer to someone as a "gentleman," you probably meant he minded his manners.

Longsuffering is like patience, but longer. I chose a pineapple to represent this part of the fruit of the Spirit because of its long name. Also, where I lived for 17 years, pineapples took more than a year and a half to perfect their sweetness.

Peace is elusive. One would think when conflict ceases, peace follows. But, the cessation of hostilities could simply be pausing to reload. Neither is peace "going along to get along," not is it pacifism. Often the embers of bitterness only grow hotter under the guise of calm.

Harvest is a time of great joy — something most of us have only heard about. But, if our very existence depended on what we grew with our own two hands, imagine how happy (and relieved!) we'd be in harvest!

Joy is second on the list describing the Fruit of the Spirit. It's not just a fleeting feeling, but something that remains as we abide in Him.

Then...as we abide in Him, not only does the Spirit bring us lasting joy, but He also enables us to bring forth lasting fruit. It's a beautiful, eternal cycle that produces a harvest of souls— and more joy!