Gifts and Fruits of the Spirit
-
Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit
In the Book of Isaiah 11:2-3, the Gifts of the Holy Spirit are described. In the passage, the gifts are considered ones that the Messiah would have possessed. Through Jesus, we also receive the Gifts of the Holy Spirit in the Sacrament of Confirmation.Wisdom (common sense, good judgment) helps us recognize the importance of others and the importance of keeping God central in our lives.
Understanding (thoughtful, perceptive) is the ability to comprehend the meaning of God's message.
Knowledge (facts, information) is the ability to think about and explore God's revelation, and also to recognize there are mysteries of faith beyond us.
Counsel (advice, guidance) is the ability to see the best way to follow God's plan when we have choices that relate to him.
Fortitude (strength and courage) is the courage to do what one knows is right.
Piety (holiness, godliness) helps us pray to God in true devotion.
Fear of the Lord (wonder, awe) the feeling of amazement before God, who is all-present, and whose friendship we do not want to lose.
The Twelve Fruits of the Holy Spirit
“Just so, every good tree bears good fruit, and a rotten tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a rotten tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. So by their fruits you will know them.” (Matthew 7:17-20)
This passage in Matthew's Gospel helps us to understand the Fruits of the Holy Spirit, which are the observable behaviors of people who have allowed the grace of the Holy Spirit to be effective in them. The tradition of the Church lists12 fruits which can be found in Galatians 4: 16-27.
Charity (love) - unselfish, loyal and kindhearted concern for the good of another
Faithfulness - dependable, loyal and full of trust
Gentleness - humble, calm, non-threatening
Kindness - merciful, sweet, and tender
Patience - slow to speak and slow to anger
Modesty - behaving and dressing in ways that do not attract sexual attention
Generosity - willingness to share with others
Joy - great pleasure or delight
Peace - contentment, unity between people
Goodness - generous and open hearted
Self-control - behaving well
Chastity - pure in thought and act, self-denial