The fruit of the Spirit is seen in our character, not just in what we do.

But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another. Galatians 5:16-26

All believers want the fruit of the Spirit, but many are unsure if they truly have it. The fruit is not what we do; it’s who we are. Two principles help us recognize these traits, both in fellow Christians and ourselves.

Fruitful believers are not controlled by their environment. Everyone experiences trials and pain, but those who are filled with the Spirit are not controlled by their situation. They keep their joy even when difficulties overwhelm (Romans 5:3-5). Because the Holy Spirit is in control, He is free to produce His fruit no matter what the circumstances are. Though such believers may feel pain or anger, they choose to trust the Lord to protect them and direct the outcome.

Fruitful Christians recover quickly after a fall. These believers are not perfect, but they’re sensitive to the Spirit’s conviction and quick to turn to the Lord in repentance. In fact, they are grateful for correction and praise God, not only for revealing their weakness but also for drawing them back to obedience.

Believers can’t produce these qualities in themselves. Character transformation occurs when we submit to God, giving Him complete control of our life. Only then will the Spirit be free to produce fruit that lasts, even in hardest seasons.