What does a transformed life look like? According to the Apostle Paul, the Spirit-filled life is evidenced by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). He refers to these qualities as the fruit of the Spirit.

Too often, the fruit of the Spirit gets reduced to a to-do list of self-effort. We try to act more loving and kind, even though we feel like giving people a piece of our minds. We try to be at peace, but we’re inwardly stressed and anxious. We feign an outward display of patience while becoming more indignant and frustrated just beneath the surface. Our best efforts leave us with little more than behavior modification. The reality is that genuine and enduring transformation requires the miraculous work of the Holy Spirit. We can change our behaviors, but only God can change our hearts.

Before you implode under the weight of failed attempts at self-transformation, lean in and learn about the work of the Holy Spirit. Discover the power and freedom of being continually filled with the Holy Spirit! As you walk daily with the Spirit, you will find that He is radically transforming you day by day! The Holy Spirit is your key to a life transformed!