Character Defined by the Fruit of the Spirit (Part 1 of 3)

In the being part of our serving leadership framework, we first must look at one's character development. When writing to the Galatians (5:22-23), Paul named nine different character attributes of those who are led by the Spirit of Christ: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The next few posts will examine how Jesus modeled these attributes for those who seek to lead, love and serve like him.

In John 15:12-13, Jesus told us to LOVE each other as he has loved us—sacrificially for the benefit of the other person, even to the point of laying one’s life down for another. If I aspire to serving leadership, I must love like Jesus loved, sacrificing personal advantage for the sake of others' success.

In Luke 10:21, Jesus had JOY through the Holy Spirit when his disciples grew in their spiritual understanding. Hebrews 12:2 points out that Jesus endured the cross for the joy set before him. If I am a serving leader, I will be characterized by joy when others develop and are successful in the Kingdom of God. Joy will also define my attitude when I experience suffering, rejection, and negative circumstances.

In Luke 22:41-44, Jesus resigned himself to suffering despite his personal will, having PEACE with the knowledge that his Father’s will was best. Serving leaders are not about building their own kingdoms, living out their dreams, or finding significance in personal achievements. Rather, regardless of the cost, they live to achieve their Father's will, building His Kingdom for His glory.

[My next post will look at three more fruits of the Spirit serving leaders must develop to be characterized as Jesus-followers.]