Which shapes you more—your DNA or environment? That old “nature vs. nurture” debate reminds us it’s both. Sure, we inherit certain traits. But let’s be honest: our surroundings play a huge role in who we’re becoming.
While we can’t change our family of origin (We can get some therapy, though!), we can change the environments we choose. And if we want the fruit of the Spirit to grow in us, we need to create space for it and foster an environment where it can grow.
That means less of what stirs up agitation, anxiety, and anger in me.
And more of what cultivates peace, joy, and gratitude.
Since the fruit grows from connection with Jesus (see John 15), let’s ask: What’s threatening that connection? Some things are hard to change—like your job—but others we choose daily: endless news, mindless scrolling, gossip-laden conversations, media overload.
What could you eliminate or limit this week?
And what could you add to your environment instead?
Yes—you can add Scripture and prayer. But you could also add time in nature, meaningful friendships, life-giving hobbies.
Even for the things you can’t change, you can change how you engage with them. What if you started reading the news with Jesus? One shift that’s helped me: I cut most opinion-based news and started reading The Pour Over. It’s like reading the news with Jesus! Since making this shift, I find that I am less anxious and more joyful. And peace and joy are both fruit of the Spirit.
What’s one step you can take to better shape your environment for spiritual growth?
