The cultivation of the spiritual life is what sustains the evangelist in his or her work. It is also the source of grace from which the fruits of the Spirit are born: peace, patience, gentleness, joy, faithfulness and self-control. These fruits are proof that Christianity works. They are attractive. When an evangelist is able to back up his or her words with the testimony of spiritual experience and a person is able to sense the visible fruits of the Holy Spirit in them, the case for Christ becomes even more compelling. Therefore, all evangelists need to prioritize their investment in the spiritual life. The Lord Jesus calls out to us:
Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in me, and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If a man does not abide in me, he is cast forth as a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you; abide in my love. (Jn 15:4-9)