God's Glory Church

“And do not be drunk with wine in which there is debauchery, but rather be filled with the Spirit.” — Ephesians 5:18

The writer Scott McKnight tells how in his school years he experienced what he later called “the permeation of the Spirit.” In the Christian camp, the preacher urged the youth to submit to the authority of Christ. After the meeting, young Scott retired under a tree and prayed: “Heavenly Father, forgive my sins and fill me with the Holy Spirit.” “Something powerful happened,” he said. “From that moment on, my life became completely different. Not perfect, but not the same as before.” Suddenly he had a desire to read the Bible, pray, meet other believers and serve God.

Before ascending to heaven, the resurrected Jesus told the disciples to “not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father” (Acts 1:4). They were to “receive power” and become His witnesses “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (v. 8). God gives the Holy Spirit to every believer in Jesus. The first time this happened was on the day of Pentecost (see Acts 2). And today it happens every time someone turns to Christ.

In addition, we can be filled with the Spirit and with His help bear the fruit of a changed character and new desires (Gal. 5:22-23). We will praise and thank God for His comfort, guidance, help and love!

What change has the Holy Spirit made in you? How can you enable Him to work in you and through you?

Loving God, thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Help me to love You and others more.

By Amy Buescher Pye