Devotional:
Scripture reveals in Galatians 5:22, that there are nine fruits of the Holy Spirit. There's love, joy, peace, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance and lastly, long-suffering. Though each takes its' own time to grow in our lives, long-suffering is the fruit that takes the longest. This is the fruit, that has to be developed under immense pressure. Oftentimes, many believers would call it torture.
When we look at the life of Joseph, his ability to long-suffer is commendable. From the pit, to Potiphar's house and then to the prison, this fruit was in development. While in the pit, would he wallow in anger and self-defeat? While at Potiphar's house, would he allow the yoke bound to his neck, to keep him from operating in excellence? While at the prison, would he allow his shackles to keep him from helping those in need of his gifts?
Though he encountered some great and fiery trials, it was those trials that brought forth the very fruit that restored his family. Without those moments of extreme sacrifice being met with a polished character, Joseph couldn't give the fruit of patience to his brothers when re-united. He didn't allow the process to stunt his growth, instead he allowed the process to expand him.
Many of you, are in fiery situations. It's all too easy for you to give into the frustration of it all. But will you withstand the pressure, to allow yourself to expand? Will you withstand the pressure, to produce the fruit of patience?
It's something to think about...
Scripture(s) Meditation:
"Until the time that his word [of prophecy regarding his brothers] came true, The word of the Lord tested and refined him."
Psalm 105:19 AMP
"But the fruit of the Spirit [the result of His presence within us] is love [unselfish concern for others], joy, [inner] peace, patience [not the ability to wait, but how we act while waiting], kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law."
Galatians 5:22-23 AMP
Song(s) Meditation: Live through it by James Fortune & FIYA
To listen to today's song meditation, click here.
Reflection Question(s): We invite you to discuss below.
How has the Lord developed the fruit of long-suffering/patience in your life? How has the growth you encountered in the process, shifted how you've waited?
Sun'Ray💕