Understanding the Command: Be Filled with the Spirit
The Command Is Continuous
Paul’s instruction to “be filled with the Spirit” is written in the present tense, implying an ongoing action. This is not a one-time event but a continuous process. Being filled with the Spirit is like breathing; it is essential for spiritual vitality and must be sustained daily.
Reflection: Are You Continuously Filled?
Consider your spiritual life—are you experiencing the ongoing fullness of the Spirit, or are you running on empty? To live a victorious Christian life, we must continually yield to the Spirit’s influence.
The Contrast: Drunk with Wine vs. Filled with the Spirit
Paul contrasts being drunk with wine to being filled with the Spirit. Why this comparison? Being drunk represents a loss of control, leading to reckless and destructive behavior (Proverbs 20:1). In contrast, being filled with the Spirit leads to self-control, godly living, and joy.
Key Truth: The Spirit Controls, Wine Destroys
While wine dulls the senses and leads to dissipation, the Spirit sharpens our spiritual perception and leads to holiness. What controls you? Is it worldly influences, or is it the Spirit of God?
2. The Evidence of Being Spirit-Filled
Paul does not leave us guessing about what it looks like to be filled with the Spirit. In Ephesians 5:19-20, he outlines four key manifestations:
a. Speaking to One Another in Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs
One evidence of being Spirit-filled is how we communicate with others. Spirit-filled believers encourage one another with psalms (Scripture-based songs), hymns (songs of worship), and spiritual songs (spontaneous songs inspired by the Spirit). This demonstrates a heart overflowing with God’s truth and joy.
Reflection: What’s Flowing from Your Heart?
Jesus said in Matthew 12:34, “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” If you are filled with the Spirit, your words will reflect worship, encouragement, and truth.
b. Singing and Making Melody in Your Heart to the Lord
Spirit-filled living is marked by joy and worship. Singing to the Lord is not just a corporate activity; it is an individual response to God’s goodness. Making melody in your heart signifies an inner joy that overflows in worship, even in difficult circumstances.
Biblical Example: Paul and Silas
In Acts 16:25, Paul and Silas, imprisoned for preaching the gospel, prayed and sang hymns to God. Despite their chains, their Spirit-filled hearts could not be silenced. Are you able to worship God in the midst of trials?
c. Giving Thanks Always for All Things
Gratitude is a hallmark of a Spirit-filled life. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 exhorts us to “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” This does not mean we give thanks for evil but that we recognize God’s sovereignty and trust Him in every situation.
Reflection: Are You Grateful?
A Spirit-filled person sees life through the lens of grace, recognizing that every good gift comes from God (James 1:17). Is your life characterized by thanksgiving, or do complaints and negativity dominate your perspective?
d. Submitting to One Another in the Fear of Christ
Though not included in the immediate verses, Ephesians 5:21 connects Spirit-filled living with mutual submission. Being filled with the Spirit enables us to put others’ needs before our own, reflecting Christ’s humility (Philippians 2:3-5).
3. The Process of Being Filled with the Spirit
How can we experience the fullness of the Spirit? Paul’s words, supported by other Scriptures, give us a roadmap:
a. Confess and Forsake Sin
Sin grieves the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30) and blocks His work in our lives. To be filled with the Spirit, we must confess and turn away from sin, inviting God to cleanse us (1 John 1:9).
Key Truth: Empty Yourself to Be Filled
Just as a glass must be emptied of dirt before it can be filled with clean water, we must surrender our sin and self-reliance to make room for the Spirit.
b. Surrender to the Spirit’s Control
Being filled with the Spirit requires yielding every area of our lives to His authority. Romans 12:1 urges us to present our bodies as living sacrifices to God. Surrender involves daily choosing to let the Spirit guide our thoughts, actions, and decisions.
Reflection: Who’s in Control?
Are you holding back areas of your life from God’s control? To be Spirit-filled, you must trust Him with everything—your time, relationships, finances, and future.
c. Seek God Through Prayer and His Word
The Spirit and the Word work together. To be filled with the Spirit, immerse yourself in Scripture and prayer. Colossians 3:16 parallels Ephesians 5:18-20, emphasizing letting the Word of Christ dwell richly in us. As we fill our minds with God’s truth, the Spirit fills our hearts with His power.
Reflection: Are You Feeding Your Spirit?
Daily time in God’s Word and prayer is essential for spiritual vitality. Are you prioritizing this time, or is it crowded out by distractions?
d. Walk in Obedience
The Spirit fills those who obey Him. Acts 5:32 states, “The Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey Him.” Obedience positions us to receive the Spirit’s fullness and experience His power in our lives.
Reflection: Are You Walking in Step with the Spirit?
Being Spirit-filled is not about emotional highs but about consistent obedience. Are you walking in step with the Spirit, allowing Him to direct your path (Galatians 5:25)?
4. The Benefits of Being Filled with the Spirit
a. Empowerment for Ministry
The Spirit equips us for God’s work. In Acts 1:8, Jesus promises, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses.” Spirit-filled believers are bold, effective witnesses for Christ.
b. Victory Over Sin
The Spirit enables us to overcome the flesh. Galatians 5:16 says, “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” Are you struggling with sin? Being filled with the Spirit gives you the strength to resist temptation.
c. Fruit of the Spirit
A Spirit-filled life produces the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). These qualities reflect the character of Christ and transform our relationships.
5. Challenges to Being Filled with the Spirit
a. Quenching the Spirit
1 Thessalonians 5:19 warns, “Do not quench the Spirit.” We quench the Spirit when we resist His prompting or neglect spiritual disciplines.
b. Neglecting Worship and Fellowship
The Spirit often works through corporate worship and fellowship with other believers. Neglecting these means of grace can hinder our spiritual growth (Hebrews 10:25).
A Life Overflowing
Being filled with the Spirit is not an option for believers—it is essential for living a victorious, joyful, and fruitful Christian life. It is a command that transforms how we speak, worship, and give thanks. It empowers us to overcome sin, serve others, and glorify God.
As we leave today, let us commit to pursuing the fullness of the Spirit. Let us confess our sins, surrender to His control, immerse ourselves in Scripture and prayer, and walk in obedience. When we do, we will experience the abundant life Jesus promised and reflect His glory to the world. Amen.