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Verses 6-7

Paul now named various graces (positive character qualities) that God had produced within him mainly in and through these trials. He moved from external circumstances to internal qualities.

"Pureness" is single-mindedness as well as moral uprightness.

"Knowledge" or "understanding" includes understanding of the Christian faith, insight, and sensitivity to God’s will (cf. 1 Peter 3:7).

"Patience" is longsuffering with difficult people without retaliation.

"Kindness" reflects a generous and sympathetic disposition that manifests itself in good actions (cf. Luke 6:35).

Perhaps Paul used "the Holy Spirit" here in the same sense that he did in Galatians 5:16. We should walk in the Spirit just as we walk in purity, knowledge, etc. The Spirit as a gift rather than as a person may be in view.

"Genuine love" is the honest desire to do what is best for those in view.

"The word of truth" probably refers to "truthful speech" or perhaps the message of truth (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:19).

"The power of God" was the power that God manifested when His ambassadors followed Him faithfully and proclaimed His Word.

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