This week’s readings are based on the “Behold” sermon series. For this series, we are looking at what it truly means to BEHOLD, gaze at, grasp, relish, internalize, and rejoice in Jesus Christ. Start beholding right now by giving thanks for this time with God. Then start reading the text and letting it read you.

But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.
Galatians 5:22-23 (MSG)

More than anything, God wants to produce fruit in our lives. This is described as the characteristics of His Spirit. In other words, God wants to build His character into us, so that we can reflect Him in our world. We cannot produce fruit on our own, it only comes through deepening our relationship with God (John 15).

What fruit do you want to see developed in your life this year? Spend time in prayer asking God to make it a fruitful year developing His character in your life.