But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-23
This Coronavirus thing is getting old. The unparalleled, widely misunderstood, worldwide pandemic is wearing many people’s patience thin. There are places in the world where the impact has been truly terrible and other places where it seems to only be a mere inconvenience. Either way, it beginning to wear down people and their frames of mind, their patience, their gentleness, their peace, and so on…
Self-control, or the lack thereof, is a character trait that is evidenced on a daily basis in any store or place where people are near other people – 6 foot spaced lines waiting to get into a store, one way aisles in the grocery stores, or perhaps your own dinner table. It is difficult to have self-control when we all believe different things about this pandemic. The questions arise: Should I wear a mask? Should you wear a mask? Should you be standing so close to me? Was that just a dirty look she gave me? Why haven’t my kids called to check on me?
Church, though these are really difficult days, this is a time to fully exhibit the fruits of the Spirit -- to prefer others above ourselves (from 6’ away of course) and to have love, joy, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. The next time someone on social media informs you what they believe is the truth, exercise patience and self-control. The next time that person in line looks at you like you are insane, smile under that mask, or compliment their mask and ask where they got it. When your kids are getting on your last nerve, remember patience and gentleness. When your husband or wife cannot seem to understand why you watch “that news channel” remember kindness and gentleness.
When you fall into a fearful state or battle depressing thoughts, remember the joy that is found in the One who is in control and welcome the peace that only He can bring. If we are living in the Spirit, our behavior should be evidence of a life in the Spirit!
Stay the course, church! The tide is turning and we must remain joyful with our eyes focused on the One who is sovereign above all!
See you real soon!
Scott Walker
Vero Bible Fellowship Elder Team