Ecclesia family,
I invite you to spend some time with me reflecting on the fruit of the spirit, goodness.
As we enter this space together, I invite you to take a few breaths. Take a moment to set aside the events of your day and just settle into a moment of presence.
What is goodness? Among many other things, goodness conveys God’s infinitely generous attitude toward us. By nature, He longs to bring joy and blessing to all His creatures.
What might it mean then, for us to bear the fruit of goodness, reflecting this quality of God toward ourselves and the world?
I invite you to listen to the following scriptures. Listen for a word or phrase that stands out to you, or pay attention to any images that come to mind. For some passages I will read different translations, where the word “goodness” may be translated differently.
Psalm 145:9
But the Eternal’s goodness is not exclusive—it is offered freely to all. His mercy extends to all His creation. (The Voice)
Exodus 34:6
The Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth. (Modern English Version)
The Eternal God, full of compassion and mercy, slow to anger, and abundant in loyal love and truth. (The Voice)
Psalm 27:13
I will move past my enemies with this one, sure hope that with my own eyes, I will see the goodness of the Eternal in the land of the living. (The Voice)
Psalm 107:8-9
For He satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with goodness. (Modern English Version)
Psalm 31:19-20
Your overflowing goodness you have kept for those who live in awe of you, and You share Your goodness with those who make You their sanctuary. You hide them, You shelter them in Your presence, safe from the conspiracies of sinful men. You keep them in Your tent, safe from the slander of accusing tongues. (The Voice)
Psalm 23:6
Surely your goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the lord forever. (English Standard Version)
Certainly Your faithful protection and loving provision will pursue me where I go, always, everywhere. I will always be with the Eternal, in Your house forever. (The Voice)
Micah 6:8
He has told you, mortals, what is good in His sight. What else does the Eternal ask of you. But to live justly and to love kindness and to walk with your True God in all humility? (The Voice)
Take a moment to reflect on the word, image, or quality of goodness that is resonating with you today.
Has anyone every demonstrated this quality of goodness toward you? What did it look like? How did it feel?
What might it mean for you to reflect this facet of goodness toward yourself, your neighbors, and the world?
Thank you, God for revealing your goodness to us. May our lives produce the many facets of your goodness that you have revealed to us through your words.
May we be a source of goodness for ourselves, our neighbors, and our world.
