2 Peter 1:9

But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.

There is nothing more aggravating than playing a course for the first time and it is designed with numerous blind shots. What you think was a perfectly executed drive actually ended up in a penalty area. You can see what is in the distance, but not actually know what is in the distance. You can see a penalty area of water, but how far does it actually extend? The hitting area is seemingly pointed toward the direction of the fairway, but local knowledge is necessary as to which tree to aim your shot over to have the best possible line of approach. Charity, patience, knowledge, and kindness are a few of the “fruits of the spirit.” Many profess to know Jesus as a historical figure, but do not actually have a relationship or commune with Christ. The true believer bears the fruits of the spirit. A close relationship with Christ bestows the believer with “local knowledge” and a faith to not only see afar, but also know that heaven is ultimately in the distance. We may worry about the visible hazards, rough or penalty areas of life, but the believer’s faith allows him/her to confidently persevere. We cannot forget we once were living life blinded by the desires of the world. Every “shot” was made with a hope or wish it was on the correct line. When we were sanctified by the blood of Christ, the blinders were eliminated and we can actually see the target!