For the fruit (the effect, the product) of the Light or the Spirit [consists] in every form of kindly goodness, uprightness of heart, and trueness of life. And try to learn [in your experience] what is pleasing to the Lord [let your lives be constant proofs of what is most acceptable to Him].
Ephesians 5:9-10 [ESV]
This will be a little shorter than most days as it is late and it has been a long day, but I cannot let this write-up slide as God is helping to reinforce my need for Him as I read His word and see the Fruit (or as the Amplified puts it -> the Effect) of what it means to have the Light (which is really the Holy Spirit Who lives inside of us).
So, what does this fruit or effect of our salvation and life turned to Christ look like?
- Kindly Goodness – Outward action
- Uprightness of Heart – Inward condition
- Trueness of Life – Visible evidence to a watching world
Look at those items above again (just to ponder and let them sink in). Outward action in service to others. Inward heart condition that is bent on the leading of the Lord. All pointing to a trueness of life that is not hypocritical and evident of the ‘New Man’ in us.
Finally, I like how the Amplified says “…and try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord”…meaning that this is not a trait that you just have…you have to work at learning what is pleasing to the Almighty God. It takes deep study and an active intimate relationship with Him. I also like how the Amplified adds [in your experience]. What this means is that as I grow in my sanctification, there will be indicators in my experience through trials, suffering, joy, and hard decisions where I will see the smile of the Lord on the outcomes of my choices when I choose His way. The ‘His Ways’ will become easier to forecast and I will learn more and more what I do that pleases Him.
Application:
Not much to follow up here as the takeaways are all in the notes above. So, I am just going to leave it at that. 🙂
Today’s Psalm:
I WAITED patiently and expectantly for the Lord; and He inclined to me and heard my cry.
Psalms 40:1-2
He drew me up out of a horrible pit [a pit of tumult and of destruction], out of the miry clay (froth and slime), and set my feet upon a rock, steadying my steps and establishing my goings.