Financial Fruit of the SpiritSample

Word #6: Goodness

The sixth aspect of the financial fruitfulness which is evidence of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives is ‘goodness.’

The only way to live ‘good’ is to allow the only One who is good to create this goodness in you, through His Spirit. As the Holy Spirit works in our lives, our character changes and the goodness produced will help life to flourish. Goodness is not a quality we can manufacture on our own. James 1:17 says,

"Every good thing given, and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights."

This certainly includes a life characterized by goodness. In letting the Holy Spirit control us, we are blessed with the fruit of goodness. As others see our good works, they will praise our Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16).

The word in Greek which Luke used to describe Jesus’s word for ‘good,’ and also which Paul used to describe this aspect of the fruit of the Spirit is ‘agathos.’ This describes not merely a virtue of character, but also good works – for the benefit of others.

Here are four ‘tests’ to see if my work is ‘good,’ or ‘agathos:’

1. 'Agathos’ work is prepared for us by God.

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10)

For this reason, living out ‘goodness’ always starts with prayer – asking God to show us which works He has prepared for us to carry out. Am I praying about which financial goals I should set, and how I should allocate the money I have under my control?

2. ‘Agathos’ work is always excellent because it comes forth out of God's ability to work in us and through us. It is said of Jesus, that the people were ...

“astonished beyond measure, saying, ‘He has done all things well.’” (Mark 7:37)

Is my financial administration in good order?

3. ‘Agathos’ work has the right motive – to serve God first and foremost and then to love our neighbour. Are the decisions I make out of love for God and the people around me? Do I choose God and people above financial goals?

4. ‘Agathos’ work is productive. This means to use the resources I have been given to produce something which people find useful for themselves. Am I using my money to help people flourish?