The fruit of the Spirit and the acts of sinful nature are different paths of life that lead to eternity. Either a destination of paradise with God or destruction in darkness and damnation. The Spirit of the sinful nature is at constant war with each other looking to rule the life of a human being. However, the fruit of the Spirit is the single-minded lifestyle. These qualities are produced in God’s children as they allow the Spirit to direct and influence their lives that they destroy sin’s power, especially the acts of sinful nature, and walk-in fellowship with God.
“Love” is the first, which is the charity that relates to giving: Is caring for and seeking the highest good of another person without motive of personal gain. “Joy” is the feeling of gladness based on the love, grace, blessings, promises, and nearness of God that belong to those who believe in Christ. “Peace” is the rest of heart and mind based on the knowledge that all is well between the believer and the heavenly Father, resulting in freedom from the turmoil of anxiety.
“Longsuffering” is different. This patience requires endurance, being slow to anger or despair. “Gentleness” is kindness, not wanting to hurt anyone or cause them pain. “Goodness” is zeal for the truth and righteousness and hatred of evil, which expresses in acts of kindness or in correcting or rebuking wrongdoing.
“Faith” is a firm and unswerving loyalty to a person who unites by a promise, commitment, trust, and honesty. “Meekness,” similar to gentleness, is restraint coupled with strength and courage. It describes a person who can be angry when anger is needed and humbly submissive when submission is required. “Temperance” is self-control; mastering one’s desires and passions, including faithfulness to one’s marriage vows; also purity.
Christians must practice these virtues continually to live according to these principles.