When a farmer plants an apple seedling, he does not expect to pick his first apple for about eight years. The ninth year the tree will have a few more apples; The tenth year, a few more, etc., etc.We had a few apple trees on the farm. I remember noticing this.
The Bible says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23).
When a person gets saved, the Holy Spirit comes inside of that person and abides there forever. The fruit of the Spirit comes later. Fruit is a product of growth and maturity. To enjoy a fruit, a farmer must have patience. To enjoy the fruit of the Spirit, a believer must grow and have patience with himself. A lack of patience produces discouragement and frustration.
Luke 21:19 says, “In your patience possess ye your souls.”
One of the worst things you can do in your spiritual development is to look at someone who has been growing in Christ for a lot longer than you, and wonder what is wrong with you. Little seedlings do grow up and become mature fruitful trees! Be patient with yourself.
