Fruit of the SpiritSample

Goodness

Goodness means straining yourself for the benefit of others. It is closely related to the aforementioned kindness, but it has a stronger sense of actively doing good, it is more focused on our actions.

In Galatians 6:9-10, Paul urges his readers: “let us not grow weary of doing good”, and “as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” Goodness thus expresses itself towards all people, but especially to fellow believers.

This goodness is not a natural human characteristic. In various Psalms that is expressed very clearly: “there is none who does good, not even one” (e.g. Psalm 14:3). Goodness, thus, is not a “fruit” we can grow ourselves, but a fruit of the Spirit dwelling in our heart. He lets us “taste and see that the Lord is good!” (Psalm 34:8). Goodness is not just something God “does”, He is utterly good. Only when we have tasted and seen his goodness, we are enabled to do good as well.

How could you “do good” today?