Twin City church of Christ Blog
“Oct 28, 2024 - Be Filled with the Spirit”
Categories: 2024 Reading DevotionalsBe Filled with the Spirit
Reading: Ephesians 5:15-21
Paul wants Jesus’ disciples to “try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord”(Eph 5:10) and to “not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is”(Eph 5:17). It is clear that these are guidelines for living rather than specific instructions. Similarly, he cautions us to “look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil”(Eph 5:15-16). Rather than living by the seat of our pants, responding thoughtlessly to every spiritual and moral dilemma, Paul urges wisdom. We “(make) the best use of the time” because we have a limited amount of time. When we don’t consciously plan to do good with our time, we often wind up doing evil. When we are not wisely considering the opportunities before us, they often pass us by.
Choosing wisdom over foolishness plays out in another arena. “And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart”(Eph 5:18-19). In the past, we may have used alcohol to escape our frustrations or let loose our emotions, but Paul tells us to put that away. Instead, we are to “be filled with the Spirit.” It is God, not alcohol, who influences our actions and decisions. It is God, not alcohol, who is our delight. Rather than the despair that prompts drunkenness, God’s Spirit produces a vibrant joy that manifests in singing, gratitude (Eph 5:20), and mutual submission (Eph 5:21).
“Be filled with the Spirit” speaks to our willingness to listen to God’s revelation, develop the Spirit’s fruit, and follow the new path Jesus has revealed to us. Instead of alcohol affecting us, this new way of life pervades our thinking, our emotions, our speech, and ultimately our actions. We daily make the choice to follow the leading of the Spirit because it has brought us freedom and forgiveness.
-----------
One Thing to Think About: How will I make the best use of the time I have today?
One Thing to Pray For: Wisdom
