Binding Hearts Blog

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!"
Galatians 5:22-23 NLT

Robin and I returned yesterday evening from spending the weekend with one of the most loving, giving and hospitable families that we have ever met.

We were in town to minister during a marriage conference and to bring the Word on Sunday. I believe that we were probably more blessed by the Lord through this family and the people of the church, than they were through us.

This family welcomed us into their home, included us in their weekend plans and made us feel like they genuinely wanted us there.

When you stay in someones home, for even a short amount of time, you can't help but get to know them. We met three of their five children, a nephew, his wife and their little boy. Robin and I were blown away at how polite, friendly and open each family member was.

It did not take me long to figure out what it was about this family that made them so close. It was the fruit of goodness. The husband and wife, together, guarded their home, only letting that which is good to enter. From entertainment choices to activities, these were only acceptable if they were healthy and honored God.

This family also extends goodness to others, laboring tirelessly for the good of individuals, other families and their community.

This couple's children, all grown, are visibly reaping the benefits of the goodness with which they were raised. Subsequently, they are now displaying this fruit in their own lives.

As parents, what are we allowing into our homes and into our lives and the lives of our children? Do we stand guard, assessing those things and allowing only the healthy activities and the goodness of the Holy Spirit to pass?

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy —

think about such things."
Phil 4:8-9 NIV

What would our marriages, families and churches look like if we vowed to only receive -look at, listen to and allow in our hearts and minds - that which is pleasing to God? And, if we vowed to demonstrate only goodness to everyone around us? What would that do for the "Loop" that would encircle back to us as a result of our remaining true to such vows?

Goodness is one "Fruit- Loop" that we need to receive and display more in our lives.

For Marriages,

Dave & Robin