Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (NIV)

The other day I read an article about a public elementary school where the canteen staff manager writes encouraging words on bananas for the children who take school lunches. With a felt-tip marker, she writes things like: “You are wonderful,” “Well done!” or “Have a great day!”The kids love to receive these ‘talking bananas,’ making them cheerfully choose healthy food. It’s a tremendous idea and is something very simple and meaningful that parents could also do at home with their own kids, especially to help them eat more fruit.

Today’s Bible verse is all about the fruits of the Spirit with which God encourages us to lead better lives. The whole list of nine spiritual qualities is something we should try to apply, practice, and share with others. The world would be a much better place if we as Christians would display these fruits at home, in our workplaces, and even in our schools. Perhaps if we wrote this verse on a card, we could keep it in our pockets, purses, and wallets as a way of reminding ourselves of what it truly means to be a follower of Christ.

Have a fruitful day! 😊

Pastor John

Erin Presbyterian Church

PS – You can also read the original article about the school canteen here: Bananas.