Fruit
Secular society likes to think we enter this world pure and innocent newborn babies. Now I have nothing against babies. I think they are an amazing blessing from God and some of my favorite people were once babies, but I also think it’s a gift of God that when a toddler is upset and throws a tantrum that it’s contained in such a small package. If a full-grown human threw that kind of fit, we would be calling 911. That is our sin nature and the desires of the flesh on full display.
In the 5 th chapter of the book of Galatians we see the Apostle Paul say that the desires of the flesh and the desires of the Spirit are opposed to one another. He also lists many things which are works of the flesh in verses 19 thru 21 and warns that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God, but I want to focus on the fruit of the Spirit.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness,
self-control; against such things there is no law.
[Galatians 5:22-23]
The fruit of the Spirit should be evident in the life of those who have been crucified with Christ Jesus and are walking in step with the Holy Spirit. As we grow in Christ (sanctification) the fruit of the Spirit in our lives should become more and more evident.
Unlike a Spiritual Gift which is a supernatural gifting of God given to all believers, the fruit of the Spirit is the natural outcome of spending time with God in his word, prayer and walking in the Spirit. We can’t create fruit on our own. It’s not the fruit of you; it’s the fruit of the Spirit. Also notice that this is fruit of the Spirit, not individual fruits. It’s not a buffet where we can take as much love and joy as we want but pass on the patience like it’s brussel sprouts. If you think you are lacking in a particular area, pray for God to help you. It is God’s will for us to be fruitful.
Looking back on my life, I can honestly say that the fruit of the Spirit in more evident in my life now than when I was a young Christian, but it has nothing to do with age and more to do with my surrender to Christ. I still struggle in areas but also pray for God to have His way with me. I also pray this for you.
Ministry Minute
WOMEN
Deacon
Several women of the church recently gathered to create beautiful flower baskets. It was a great time of fellowship and fun. As I look at my planter, I’m reminded of God’s creativity and the beauty that flowers bring to life. I also see God’s beauty and creativity in each woman in our LTCC family. It’s a blessing to serve alongside and magnify the LORD with the women of our church.
Our ministry year is wrapping up, but there are two upcoming opportunities for fellowship and service:
WOMEN’S BREAKFAST - THIS SATURDAY!
Please join us for the last breakfast of the ministry year on May 17 at 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. JoEll Pascua will be sharing the testimony of God’s work in her life. Registration is open now, but will close Friday, May 16 @ 9 a.m.
BLESS THE MIDDLEKAUFFS!
In less than 2 months, the Middlekauff family will be moving to Washington. As you know, there are hundreds of details in any move. Please pray for Andrew, Edith and their family as they attend to all of those details and for God’s strength as they close this chapter of their lives in California. We in women’s ministry would like to extend warm hospitality toward the Middlekauffs and help make their transition to Washington just a little easier.
MIDDLEKAUFF PANTRY SHOWER
We will be organizing a pantry shower, filling their freezer with meals and goodies and blessing them with some gift cards as they set up and decorate their new home.
I am working with Edith who will provide me with a list of needed pantry staples, food preferences and any dietary restrictions. I will provide the list and details about this special opportunity soon.
CONNECTIONS
While there are opportunities to gather in larger groups, one on one women’s ministry is also very valuable. Do you need encouragement? Do you need prayer? Would you like an older woman in the faith to come alongside you in this season of life? Please reach out to me leeanne@laketappscc.org and I will help make the connections.