The Short-sighted Condition is defined by the Galilean manfisher as lacking virtue (2 Peter 1:5-7). He could have addressed one lack: obedience.  Being obedient, after a closer look, however, is not a recognized spiritual achievement, and Peter is no pal of lying extremists who want to say they comply with God because they have done what he commands. The shortsighted do not give a rabbit’s phallus for what God has given his elect as their inheritance.

Since we are certain that believers are like plants under the care of the Production Master with access to water, who would it be that keeps harassing believers about their leaves and fruit other than a foe?

2) But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night. 3) He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers.

Psalms 1:2-3

If the exchange about the divine Spirit and virtue turns to a book we shout “Yeah!” and if the book turns out not to be the Bible we can only say “Nay”.

More than a popular list

Virtue Gifts are marked with *, and are charismatic, that is, they are marks of grace. Fruit produced by the Spirit – Spirit Fruit – are marked with ***.

1. Diligence*
2. Faith ***
3. Moral excellence*
4. Knowledge*
5. Self-control***
6. Perseverance***
7. Godliness*
8. Brotherly kindness*
9. Love***

What has anyone acquired that God did not give? Nothing. Not a single aspect of grace unleashed can be tagged as a failure. The same cannot be said about the law, not with its proponents pursuing murderous solutions to societal problems and finding no insytructions for parading a spiritual life for the world to see. A spiritual life is part the kingdom of God. It comes without human scrutiny and contribution. Be as thorough as you please if you need to settle into the 20/20 vision capacity of the redeemed; if you are intent on seeing past the weak and ineffective paradigms and talking points that define the lifestyles of the myopic of our times.