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
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Stepping up to an office,
Stationed by God,
I stand in the valley of change.
—
Casting down yesterday’s garments,
Putting on the mantle of righteousness,
Sending out the proclamation,
The ways of the past are cut off,
Tomorrow we walk anew.
—
Many are the voices of comfort,
That come against me.
My shield drops in disappointment.
—
The arrows of discontent,
And false accusation wound me,
Causing my fruit to be pierced,
And fall down around my feet.
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Then, I recognize the voice,
Not the voice of the brethren,
Only the vessel,
Confused for a season.
It is the voice of the enemy.
—
I cast off hurt as I raise my shield.
Many fruit have fallen,
My branches are broken and splintered,
But next to the wounds are buds of hope,
Watered by the words of the spirit,
Preparing the branches for an abundance,
Of new fruit.
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Written 2-7-2001
Linda J. Humes 