The Fruit of Hope: Discovering Hope in the Fruits of the Spiritنموونە

Here we are, on the final—and probably everyone’s least-favorite—of the fruit of the Spirit, self-control.

First, let’s look at the list of the desires of the flesh that precede the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5. What do we see there? “Sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, anger, quarrels, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these.” (Galatians 5:19b-21a)

We’d probably agree that most of these appeal to our pleasure centers. We would indulge in these works of the flesh because they make us feel good!

But one thing you’ll always find: when you let these desires lead your life, they ultimately lead to a life devoid of hope.

They are also all defeated through self-control.

“No testing has overtaken you that is not common to everyone. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tested beyond your strength, but with the testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13, NRSV)

Self-control isn’t just a fruit of the Spirit, it’s a muscle you can develop and strengthen through use. The more you practice self-control, the stronger it becomes! And the more you live out of your self-control, the more you’re able to leave behind the works of the flesh and fully embody the fruit-filled life of hope that God has called you to.

You can do it. God promised he’d make a way out whenever you encounter temptation. Have hope that his promise is true. Have hope for your future. Have hope for yourself. Practice self-control and enjoy the rewards of all that entails.

As you move through life embracing the fruit of the Spirit, look deeper into them and discover the hope that animates them all. The hope you have in Jesus Christ. He is your hope, after all. And hope is alive!

This reading plan was brought to you by Hope is Alive Ministries. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction or substance abuse and wants to discover the kind of hope that can set people free and radically transform lives, visit the HIA website at hopeisalive.net for help and resources.