The enemy of your soul loves when you agree with his judgements of your life, relationships, and circumstances. If he can get you to think like he does, you’ll live in a downward–spiraling negativism that makes you stressed, sad, bitter, self–absorbed, unapproachable, and a real delight to be around. Best of all, you’ll stop listening for God and quit speaking what He tells you.
“Death and life are in the power of your words. You will eat the fruit of whatever your heart sows” (Proverbs 18:21).
Words that speak life to you and others are absolute death to the enemy. That’s why the fruit of the Spirit are some of your most powerful weapons, and why the enemy is so afraid of you growing in them.
Living in the peace of God puts your mind at rest, and at the same time makes the enemy anxious and stressed. Giving joy away heals and energizes your soul, and depresses the enemy. Choosing to respond in God’s love puts you in the middle of His presence, and completely displaces the enemy. The more you agree with what the Holy Spirit is saying to you and your circumstances, the more damage you do to the enemy.
God is not trying to grow fruit in you to teach you a lesson, He’s trying to produce certain fruit from your relationship with Him because it’s exactly what you need right now. It’s just what you’ve been praying for to turn back the enemy, brilliantly deal with your circumstances, and thrive in who your identity in Jesus.
“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self- control.” (Galatians 5:22–23a).
So, what fruit of the Spirit do you think God is trying to grow in you right now?
Equip Your Spirit 