As a Christian, we manifest the fruit automatically, because Christ lives in us. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Matthew 17:20
As we grow, the fruit becomes riper! So we should always be developing our fruit. As we hear the Word, we bring forth fruit.
But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience. Luke 8:15
But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. I Timothy 6:11
II Peter 1: 4-9
Notice that patience is not only a part of the fruit of the Spirit, but seems to be required in almost every Christian endeavor, including having the fruit of the Spirit! So in order to have patience, we must be patient! The LORD has a sense of humor
But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. James 1:4
As we die to ourselves, we focus on Christ and bring forth fruit in Him.
Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. John 12:24
God helps us to develop our fruit as we daily walk with Him.
Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. John 15:2
Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. John 15:3
(For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth
Ephesians 5:9
The fruit of the Spirit is also His character traits. As the fruit abounds in us, we become more Christlike.
He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. I John 4:8
Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength. Nehemiah 8:10
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7
And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;
II Peter 3:15
Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great. Psalm 18:35
Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? Romans 2:4
For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? Romans 3:3
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Matthew 11:29
And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. John 1:14
Gen you are so sweet. Thank you for the topic! It was food for thought that got me searching
You ask if we can encourage the fruit; I believe the way to encourage its growth, strength and health, is to become more like Christ by using the fertilizer of His Word very generously and on a daily basis
