Counsels on Self-Identity

Counsel #11 — Fruits of Spirit

Picture: Counsel #11 — Fruits of Spirit CI 140.1

When you think of masculinity, what comes to mind? Strength? Confidence? Leadership? These are all great qualities, but what if masculinity also looked like patience, gentleness, and self-control? CI 140.2

The fruits of the Spirit aren’t gendered. It’s God’s character showing up in us. Yet for men, it can be easy to dismiss traits like kindness or gentleness as weak. The world often paints masculinity as dominant, emotionally suppressed, and having aggressive ambition. But Jesus, the most complete example of perfect manhood, wept openly, welcomed children, spoke with compassion, and corrected with love. Living out the fruits of the Spirit as a man takes courage because it’s not popular. Some men are even thought of as “feminine” if they reflect gentleness! Although this can be difficult to portray with today’s societal expectations, if you want to be a godly man who stands out in this world, you’ve got to let God grow His Spirit in you. Ask Him to shape your responses, soften your rough edges, and deepen your love for others. True masculinity isn’t shaped by worldly expectations - it blesses others by being Spirit-led.^[150] CI 140.3

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” Galatians 5:22, 23 NIV CI 140.4

“Love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, faith and charity are the elements of the Christian character.” Ellen White in Reflecting Christ, p. 173 CI 140.5

Reflect: Do your circumstances determine whether others see fruit in you? CI 140.6