Spirit Filled
Day 1: Filled with the Spirit
Reading: Ephesians 5:15-21
Devotional: Paul's exhortation to be filled with the Spirit is a call to continual surrender and openness to God's presence in our lives. Unlike being drunk on wine, which leads to recklessness, being filled with the Spirit leads to wisdom, joy, and grateful hearts. Today, reflect on areas of your life where you might be resisting the Spirit's influence. Ask God to fill you anew, allowing His presence to overflow in worship, thanksgiving, and loving relationships with others. How might your day look different if you were to consciously invite the Holy Spirit's guidance in each decision and interaction?
Day 2: Fruit of the Spirit
Reading: Galatians 5:16-26
Devotional: The fruit of the Spirit is evidence of a life transformed by God's presence. As we cultivate intimacy with the Holy Spirit, these qualities naturally grow in our lives. Consider each fruit listed - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Which of these do you see developing in your life? Which ones are you struggling with? Ask the Holy Spirit to help you "keep in step" with Him, allowing His work to shape your character. Remember, fruit doesn't appear overnight - it's a process of growth. How can you cooperate with the Spirit's work in your life today?
Day 3: Gifts for the Common Good
Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:1-11
Devotional: God equips each believer with spiritual gifts, not for personal gain or pride, but for the benefit of the entire body of Christ. Reflect on the gifts mentioned in this passage. Have you identified your spiritual gifts? If so, how are you using them to serve others and build up the church? If not, pray for discernment and seek opportunities to explore different areas of service. Remember, the purpose of these gifts is to glorify God and help others. How can you use your unique abilities and experiences to point others to Christ today?
Day 4: Power to Witness
Reading: Acts 1:1-8
Devotional: Jesus promised His disciples power through the Holy Spirit to be His witnesses. This same power is available to us today. Being a witness isn't just about verbal proclamation - it's about living a life that testifies to the transforming power of the gospel. Think about your "Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria" - the circles of influence in your life where God has placed you as a witness. How can you demonstrate Christ's love and truth in these areas? Ask the Holy Spirit for boldness and wisdom to share your faith naturally and effectively in your daily interactions.
Day 5: Rivers of Living Water
Reading: John 7:37-39
Devotional: Jesus invites all who are thirsty to come to Him and drink, promising that rivers of living water will flow from within those who believe. This vivid imagery speaks of the abundant, life-giving presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Reflect on times when you've experienced this "flow" of God's Spirit - perhaps in worship, service, or sharing your faith. Are there any blockages in your life preventing this flow? Surrender these areas to God, asking Him to remove any obstacles. How can you be a channel of God's refreshing presence to those around you who are spiritually thirsty?