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I came across this spiritual exercise in Mark Labberton's Called: the Crisis and Promise of Following Jesus Today. I challenge you to join me in giving it a shot this week.

Memorize all nine of the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Spend a few days reciting them often and incorporating them into your prayer life. Consider which of these are most evident in your life and which less so.

  • Choose one specific fruit of the Spirit you feel led to embody more fully.

  • Create a reminder that represents this characteristic in some way and can encourage its development. For example,

    • an object to carry in your pocket or handbag;

    • an alert that goes off periodically on your phone or calendar;

    • notes to post on your mirror, on your refrigerator, in your car or elsewhere;

    • or a song to play each morning and evening, or during your commute.

  • Pay attention to cues that may help you recognize your progress. Invite trusted friends or colleagues to share observations that may be helpful.