Day #18 | Behold 2028 Devotional

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” - Galatians 5:22-23

At some point, everyone has wondered how to become the best version of themselves. The motivation for change can vary—from wanting to be more likable to simply asking, "Why not?"

While improving our physical health may seem straightforward, transforming our character, will, and heart requires a deeper approach. How do we change what's hidden inside? How can we "operate" on our hearts without being surgeons?

For Christians who have a living, trusting relationship with God, the answer is clear. They have encountered the One who has already "operated" on their hearts. In them, the pulse of God's love is unmistakable. His ongoing work of renewing their minds and transforming their thinking is constant. Every trial and hardship is used for good, cultivating the fruit of the Spirit, which becomes evident to those around them.

When we place our trust in God, we rely on the loving and faithful Father who began this incredible work in us and will see it through to completion. Hearts nourished by the Word and led by the Holy Spirit cannot help but love, forgive, believe, and rejoice. By crucifying the flesh with its passions and desires, dying to ourselves with Christ, and becoming His children, we clothe ourselves in Him.

God’s transforming power doesn't just help us become the best version of ourselves—it makes us more like Christ. We are called to walk by faith, having received everything we need to do so. The fruit of the Spirit isn’t a checklist of virtues we must achieve in our own strength, but a manifestation of God's presence in us, growing as we surrender to His will. As we yield to the Holy Spirit, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control begin to take root in our lives. These aren’t mere moral improvements; they are divine transformations that empower us to live as Christ did.

Let us walk closely with Christ, listen to His Spirit, and shine for His Kingdom. When we do, love, hope, and faith will flow naturally from our lives. God will continue His transforming work, and “the surgery” will be a success.