The Fruit of Joy
The Fruit of Joy
The fruit of the Spirit, as described in Galatians 5:22–23, reveals nine attributes of a life rooted in Christ: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
To convey the essence of joy, I chose bright, vivid colors for this painting. Yet joy doesn’t mean the absence of sorrow. As the saying goes, “Life seldom goes as planned.” The figure in the artwork bears tear stains on her face—a reminder that life often brings heartache. We may face setbacks in our careers, struggles within our families, or emotional wounds inflicted by those we love. Sometimes, even when we long to love others, we find ourselves unable to reach them.
Even if our work and relationships seem stable, health remains beyond our control. As we age, physical ailments inevitably arise, and many must endure long battles with illness. These trials are part of the human experience.
With the Holy Spirit by our side, we walk in peace. Even when circumstances are difficult, we trust that everything unfolds according to God’s perfect plan. His ways are always best. As we lean into His guidance with trust and obedience, joy wells up within us—like a spring that refreshes and satisfies the soul.
Though life is filled with disappointments, we are grateful that we can lay every burden at God’s feet. In His presence, we find rest. Knowing our lives are held in His hands, a fountain of joy begins to flow from within—quiet, steady, and full of grace.
Bernadette Lau
