When one is following the guidance of the Spirit, these nine “fruits” or proofs appear in the life of the believer. 

 

1.    LOVE (Affection for others, self-gift to others) - This fruit is evident when I love sacrificially.

 

2.    JOY  (Exuberance about life) - This fruit is evident when I am joyful notwithstanding external circumstances.

 

3.    PEACE (Peace of mind, peace of heart, serenity) - This fruit is evident when I can walk with peace into a conflict in order to reach a resolution.

 

4.    PATIENCE (Even-Temper, forbearance) - This fruit is evident when I can relinquish control.

 

5.    KINDNESS (Mercy, Compassion) - This fruit is evident when I can love who those do not deserve it.

 

6.    GOODNESS (Generosity, Holiness) - This fruit is evident when I am generous with my time, talents and treasures.

 

7.    FAITHFULNESS (Trustfulness, Confidence) - This fruit is evident when I am faithful to my commitment and responsibilities, even when I don’t feel like it.

 

8.    GENTLENESS (Meekness) - This fruit is evident when I can express myself in an assertive way, neither passive nor aggressive.

 

9.    SELF-CONTROL (Continence) - This fruit is evident when I can exercise self-restraint and sublimation, being able to call our and direct my energies wisely.

​