Galatians 5:22 In the bible speaks to the “fruit” of the spirit. The fruit of the spirit is a metaphor for the characteristics you should be able to visibly see if a person is a believer in Jesus. Its much like you could see by the type of fruit (apple, orange, pear, etc.) what type of tree it is.

It has always struck me that the first three (Love, joy, peace) are the ones we all seek the most. I also believe they come in that order. Love first, then joy and that results in peace. If we took a survey of the top 10 things most people want, peace is usually right near the top. Peace is the ability to find contentment where you are in life. It’s being able to rest and see the world through the lens of love and joy.

Over the past year, America seems to have skipped a few steps wanting to hurry and have peace. Well, you can’t have real peace without loving those around you first. That kind of love also means to forbear and forgive those who have wronged us. Only when we show this kind of love do we become aware of a deep joy in our lives. It is only when you have love and joy in your heart do you find that elusive peace we are searching for.

There are other attributes (fruits) that come after the first three like, patience, kindness, goodness and faithfulness, but you see, they all come after choosing to love first.

This Christmas season, please take a moment to get with God and ask him to adjust (if needed) your love for others so you may have the joy of Christmas and the peace that can only come from God almighty. KT