So often we use the word “good” in our everyday conversations – in our greetings, in our compliments, in our commendations.
Goodness is one of the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23. It’s a character trait that we strive to develop in our lives as Christians. But what does goodness mean? And how can we cultivate it in our lives?
God wants His children to reflect His morally upright, righteous, and virtuous character. As the ultimate source of goodness, God can replicate His character of goodness in our lives as we strive to bear good fruit. His word says in Psalms 23:6 that “Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” God extends His goodness to us, and our role is to reflect the character of God.
As believers in Christ, we are called to bear His fruit of goodness. “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” -Ephesians 2:10. God has prepared good works for us to do, and when we demonstrate goodness, we are fulfilling His purpose for our lives.
Goodness is not just about doing good deeds, but it’s about having a heart of compassion and putting others’ needs before our own. This is not easily achieved and cannot be done in our own strength. As Paul rightly says “For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. -Romans 7:18. Goodness is only possible through God’s continued goodness and mercy. As we place our total dependency on God and humble ourselves before Him, we are able to do what is right.
We can also cultivate goodness by being intentional about our actions. We need to be aware of the needs of those around us and be willing to help in any way we can. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. -Galatians 6:10. We seek to serve others and put their needs before our own. We also strive to live a life of integrity and moral excellence, even when no one is watching.
God cultivates His goodness in us when we choose to have a relationship with Him. It’s only through the power of the Holy Spirit that we can produce the fruit of goodness in our lives. We also need to read and study the Bible, which provides guidance on how to live a life that honors God and demonstrate goodness to others.
Let us all strive to develop this important character trait in our lives. As we aim to live a life of integrity and moral excellence, let us choose to honor God in being good to others. Shine forth God’s goodness in your life for the world to see.
…let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. -Matthew 5:16.
