THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

First of all, comparing the 'fruit of the Spirit' against the 'works of the flesh' is essential to our understanding. Clearly, a huge disparity exists between the two ... especially when it comes to their origin. 

'We' produce works; the 'Holy Spirit' produces fruit. 

Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.  Galatians 5:19-21

Contrast that with ...

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such, there is no law.  Galatians 5:22-23

Regardless of how disciplined you might be, your flesh cannot manufacture a life that is acceptable in the eyes of God. Self 'righteousness' falls pitifully short of the requirements dictated by His law. 

... all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags. Isaiah 64:6

Jesus Christ obeyed the law on your behalf and the Holy Spirit brings about the change that you can not accomplish on your own. 

For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh, that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.  Romans 8:3-4

The key is ... live day by day in the Lord's presence so that the Holy Spirit's imparted fruit remains vigorous and active, expelling old affections and sinful ways.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.  2 Corinthians 5:17

Of the nine fruits listed, the first three join you to God: love, joy, and peace. The second touches those around you: longsuffering, kindness, and goodness. The third describes your new inner character: faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

May the 'fruit of the Spirit' be seen by those who witness your life. The lost need empirical evidence before they will put any trust in your God.