Challenges to Bearing Fruit

Hello! Let’s talk about some challenges we face when trying to grow the Fruit of the Spirit in our lives. We’ll look at how to overcome these obstacles with practical examples and stories, and see what the Bible says about them.

Overcoming Obstacles That Hinder Spiritual Growth

1. Distractions Example: Imagine trying to do your homework while the TV is on. It’s hard to concentrate, right? Distractions make it hard to focus on growing the Fruit of the Spirit. Story: Martha in the Bible was distracted with many tasks and didn’t spend time with Jesus like her sister Mary did. Mary chose to focus on Jesus. Scriptural Reference: “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better.” – Luke 10:41-42 How to Overcome: Set aside specific times for prayer and reading the Bible without any distractions.
2. Temptations Example: Think about when you’re tempted to eat more candy than you should. Temptations can make it hard to practice self-control and other fruits. Story: Jesus was tempted by the devil in the desert, but He used God’s Word to resist temptation. Scriptural Reference: “Jesus answered, ‘It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’'” – Matthew 4:4 How to Overcome: Pray for strength to resist temptations and remember Bible verses that help you stay strong.
3. Negative Influences Example: If you hang out with friends who are always arguing, it’s hard to practice peace and kindness. Story: King Solomon, who was very wise, started following other gods because he surrounded himself with people who didn’t worship the true God. Scriptural Reference: “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” – Proverbs 13:20 How to Overcome: Choose friends who encourage you to grow in the Fruit of the Spirit and set a good example.
4. Lack of Time with God Example: Just like plants need water and sunlight to grow, we need to spend time with God to grow spiritually. Story: The Israelites often forgot to spend time with God and follow His commands, which led them away from Him. Scriptural Reference: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33 How to Overcome: Make a habit of praying and reading the Bible every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes.

Recognizing and Addressing Personal and External Challenges

1. Personal Challenges

• Example: Feeling impatient when things don’t go your way.
• Story: Jonah got upset when God showed mercy to Nineveh because he wanted things to go his way. Scriptural Reference: “But to Jonah this seemed very wrong, and he became angry.” – Jonah 4:1 How to Address: Pray for patience and ask God to help you trust His timing.

1. External Challenges

• Example: Facing criticism from others when you try to do the right thing.
• Story: Nehemiah faced opposition when he was rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, but he kept going. Scriptural Reference: “They all plotted together to come and fight against Jerusalem and stir up trouble against it. But we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat.” – Nehemiah 4:8-9 How to Address: Stay strong in your faith and ask God for courage to keep doing what’s right.

Summary

Growing the Fruit of the Spirit can be challenging because of distractions, temptations, negative influences, and not spending enough time with God. Personal challenges like impatience and external challenges like criticism can also make it hard. But by praying, reading the Bible, choosing good friends, and trusting God, we can overcome these obstacles. Remember, the Holy Spirit is like a gardener who helps us grow these good qualities in our lives. Stay connected to God and ask Him to help you every day!