Part 6 in the Fruit of the Spirit Series
“The fruit of the Spirit is… goodness…” – Galatians 5:22
Sometimes when we hear the word “goodness,” we imagine a far-off unattainable ideal—something noble, yet out of our reach. But the goodness the Holy Spirit cultivates within us is not about perfection. It’s about integrity, consistency, and choosing to reflect the heart of Christ in our everyday interactions. It’s about being honest when no one is watching, kind when it’s inconvenient, and faithful when it’s unpopular.
Goodness is a quiet power. It is the fruit that represents moral courage, character, justice, and unwavering integrity—manifested through both small acts of kindness and big decisions that honor God and others.
I’ve come to understand that goodness is not something we achieve once and for all—it’s a daily decision, shaped by the Spirit, rooted in humility, and refined through life’s tests. Along my journey, I’ve had moments of both strength and struggle, when my character was tested, and when God’s grace carried me through. I don’t write this as someone who has arrived, but as someone walking this journey with you—desiring to grow in Christlike goodness every day.
The Apostle Paul says in Philippians 3:12-14
“Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus”
In life, mistakes are made, I have made mistakes, Romans 3:23 says “for all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God,” but the ability to recognise our weaknesses, frailties and shortcomings and make the necessary corrections demonstrates a heart willing to learn and gravitate towards a lifestyle of integrity and honour.
Root Causes of the Absence of Goodness
Before we embrace this virtue, it’s worth acknowledging why goodness can be so scarce in our world:
Broken identity: When we forget who we are in Christ, we often compromise our values to seek approval, validation, or gain.
Cultural compromise: In environments where “the end justifies the means,” character often takes a back seat to success or ambition.
Past wounds or mistrust: Those who’ve experienced betrayal or injustice may struggle to live transparently, choosing self-protection over authenticity.
Spiritual drift: When our walk with God becomes lukewarm or superficial, the fruit of goodness diminishes.
Why is goodness so scarce today? Because society has become desensitized. Compassion fatigue, pride, broken homes, unresolved pain, and the chase for success have eroded empathy.
But God’s invitation is clear: “He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8)
What Is Goodness?
Goodness is more than being nice—it’s the visible outworking of internal righteousness. It’s moral integrity, authenticity, and a consistent life that mirrors the character of Jesus.
Biblical goodness:
Stands for truth (Psalm 15:1–2): “Who may dwell in your sacred tent? The one… who speaks the truth from their heart.”
Chooses integrity (Proverbs 10:9): “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely.”
Loves justice (Amos 5:24): “Let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream.”
Models transparency (2 Corinthians 8:21): “For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man.”
Practical Expressions of Goodness
- In the Home:
In over 30 years of marriage, I’ve learned that goodness is the glue of healthy relationships. It’s seen in patience during disagreements, loyalty and faithfulness in our relationships, transparency and honesty in financial matters, respect for each other’s right to grow and mature in grace and the willingness to say “I was wrong” or “I forgive you.” A home grounded in goodness becomes a sanctuary of peace and mutual respect. Goodness in the home means choosing patience, humility, and sacrificial love. It means not just providing or leading—but serving with integrity. In my marriage, goodness has been the cornerstone—the quiet strength that has sustained peace, mutual respect, and joy. It’s in how we resolve conflict with grace, how we model honor to our children, and how we choose love daily. - In the Workplace:
Goodness in the workplace means refusing to gossip, doing excellent work even when no one is watching, and treating colleagues with fairness. It’s in owning mistakes, sharing credit, and uplifting others, even in competitive environments. People should feel safe, seen, and respected when they work with you. Your goodness becomes a testimony that points others to something greater than ambition—to Christlikeness. - In the Church:
In ministry, goodness shines through servant leadership, accountability, and compassion. It’s not about image or reputation but about sincere love, building up others, and honoring Christ above self. As believers, our lives should echo the goodness of Christ—not just on the pulpit or platform but in how we treat the unseen, the vulnerable, and the struggling. - In Society:
Goodness must also be public. We are called to live in such a way that truth and justice flow through our actions in the public square As we reflect on global injustices, we must ask—how do we embody Christ’s goodness? Can we be voices for the voiceless, givers to the needy, healers in broken communities? Goodness calls us beyond comfort zones into transformative action. Your influence—whether large or small—can shift atmospheres when it is grounded in goodness.
Walking This Journey Together
I’ve had plans and dreams that didn’t unfold as I hoped. Yet looking back with gratitude, I now see that through those seasons, God was shaping my character—teaching me to trust His process. His Spirit refined my values, and slowly but surely, goodness became not just a goal but a lifestyle. This is the journey we are all called to walk—not alone, but together as the body of Christ.
Scriptures to Anchor This Virtue
Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Proverbs 11:3 – “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.”
Philippians 4:8 – “Whatever is true, noble, right, pure… think about such things.”
Matthew 5:16 – “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Reflection
What areas of my life need realignment with the goodness of Christ?
Have I compromised integrity for convenience or approval?
How can I cultivate goodness in my home, workplace, and community this week?
A Prayer
Lord, make me a vessel of Your goodness. Shape my character, purify my heart, and let my life reflect Your righteousness and love. Teach me to walk with integrity, to love truth, and to uplift others with compassion. May my actions reveal You to a broken world. Lord, fill me with Your Spirit so that my life will overflow with true goodness. Give me courage to live with integrity, to speak truth, and to walk humbly. Teach me to reflect Your heart in every space I occupy—my home, my work, my church, and society. May I be known for my character, and may my goodness lead others to encounter You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Takeaway
Goodness is not a destination—it’s a lifestyle of consistency, compassion, and character. In a world longing for authenticity and hope, may we be known by our fruit. Together, let us shine with the goodness of Christ and walk in integrity—so that in all we do, His name is glorified.
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever”. Psalm 23:6
Whether you are a Christian, of another faith, or still seeking your spiritual path, I’m glad you’re here. If this message resonated with you, please share, reflect, or reach out. Let’s support each other on the journey toward wholeness—in mind, body, and spirit.
Together in Grace
Joseph