Evidences of a Spirit-Filled Life
November 26, 2019
Commentary
It is sad to see so many professing Christians drift aimlessly through life and never accomplish anything meaningful for the Lord. Paul gives several reasons why we must make the best use of every opportunity for God’s glory. First, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise” (v. 15). Wise living means using time well, staying alert, and walking purposefully in a world full of distraction. Second, we must use our time wisely “because the days are evil” (v. 16). Life is short, and the opportunities to serve Christ are lim-ited. Third, we should live carefully “because it is the Lord’s will” (v. 17), which brings meaning and direction to every decision we make.
Paul contrasts getting drunk on wine, which gives a temporary and empty thrill, with being filled by the Spirit, which produces lasting joy and power (v. 18). All believers have the Holy Spirit from the moment of salvation, yet not all are Spirit-filled. To be filled with the Spirit means to be controlled by Him—to yield our hearts, minds, and will to His guidance. The question is not how much of the Spirit we have, but how much of us the Spirit truly controls.
There are three marks of a Spirit-filled life. First, a joyful heart, “speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit” (v. 19). Second, a thankful attitude, “always giving thanks to God the Father for everything” (v. 20). Third, a submissive spirit, “submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ” (v. 21). The Spirit-filled believer finds joy in worship, gratitude in daily living, and humility in relationships. Such a life brings glory to God and shows the world what true holiness and maturity in Christ look like.
Application
Of the three evidences of a Spirit-filled life, which one am I strongest in? Which one am I weakest in? Is there an area I don’t let the Lord completely control? Am I making the best use of my time for God or wasting it on things that do not matter? How can I show joy, gratitude, and humility so others see Christ’s work in me?
Ephesians 5:15–21 (NET)
15 Therefore consider carefully how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 taking advantage of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 For this reason do not be foolish, but be wise by understanding what the Lord’s will is. 18 And do not get drunk with wine, which is debauchery, but be filled by the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music in your hearts to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 and submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.
Moody – Filled With Air or Water
Speaking to a large audience, D.L. Moody held up a glass and asked, “How can I get the air out of this glass?” One man shouted, “Suck it out with a pump!” Moody replied, “That would create a vacuum and shatter the gla … Continue