Living with the Side Effects

A NOTE FROM RAY - I'm living with the side effects.

Walking with Jesus comes with its share of challenges, trials, and tests of faith.

Recently, Anne pointed something out to me. In the middle of a situation, my response was very different from how I would have reacted 20 or 25 years ago. Two words came to mind: side effects.
It hit me—when we spend time in the Word, stay in prayer, and walk closely with Jesus, there are side effects. But they’re not the kind we try to avoid… they’re the kind we hope for.

Scripture calls them the fruit of the Spirit.

In Galatians 5:22–23, we’re reminded that the Holy Spirit produces in us love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These don’t come from trying harder—they come from walking closer.

Over time, something changes in us. Our reactions soften. Our patience grows. Our words carry more grace. Not because we’ve mastered life—but because the Spirit is at work within us.

And one day, like me, you may find yourself pausing and realizing… you’re not who you used to be.

That’s not coincidence.
That’s transformation.
I can live with these side effects.