Text: Galatians 5:22 & Others.
The word, "goodness," in this verse comes from the Greek word, "agathosune," and means uprightness of heart and life, goodness in the sense of being good to someone. It specifically refers to giving, sharing.
In the gospels the poor widow gave all the money she had into the offering. In the Old Testament Elijah came to a woman (another widow) God had prepared. He asked her to make a cake for him. He did not say he had a flour-producing anointing. Don't fall for the gimmicks. God spoke to her heart, and she obeyed Him.
Another word used in the New Testament (Luke 6:27-28) for goodness is, "kalos," which means good, excellent in its nature and characteristics, and therefore well adapted to its ends. In this context we're told to love our enemies. We're not to return evil for evil, but speak well of them, and treat them well.
In Acts 10:38 it talks about how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good (euergeteo - to be philanthropic, do good) and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him. Jesus healed the sick and was a philanthropist. The disciples didn't give it a second thought when Judas Iscariot, their treasurer, left the Last Supper. They figured he was going to distribute some funds to the poor. The ministry wasn't dripping in red ink. It had more than enough.
Faithfulness comes from the Greek word, "pistis," the character of one who can be relied on (from Thayer's Greek Lexicon). What are the attributes of a faithful person? They are devoted, trustworthy, dependable, dedicated, constant, and unwavering. I John 1:9 tells us Jesus is faithful and just. He doesn't forgive us if He's in the mood or is having a good day. He is dependable and faithful to forgive us. When we're abiding in the vine (Jesus), His nature flows through us.
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