How does being Spirit-filled influence our relationships and decision-making? Setting the Scene: Filled, Not Drunk “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18). Paul contrasts two controlling influences: alcohol’s temporary, destructive sway versus the Spirit’s lasting, life-giving presence. One dulls discernment; the other sharpens it. What Does “Filled with the Spirit” Mean? • Continuous action—literally, “keep on being filled.” • Yielding every part of life to the Spirit’s direction. • Allowing His character to saturate thoughts, words, and actions (cf. Galatians 5:16). Impact on Personal Heart Attitudes A Spirit-filled believer experiences an internal transformation that spills outward: • Love replaces self-interest (Romans 5:5). • Joy steadies the soul amid circumstances (John 15:11). • Peace calms anxiety (Philippians 4:7). • Self-control governs impulses (Galatians 5:22-23). Overflow into Relationships Spirit fullness reshapes how we treat others: • Marriage: mutual submission in reverence for Christ (Ephesians 5:21-33). • Family: parents disciple with tenderness, children obey with respect (Ephesians 6:1-4). • Church: believers speak “psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs” to build one another up (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16). • Community: kindness and forgiveness replace bitterness (Ephesians 4:31-32). Guidance for Decision-Making The Spirit supplies wisdom that aligns choices with God’s will: • He illuminates Scripture, our primary guide (John 16:13; Psalm 119:105). • He prompts or restrains—“led by the Spirit of God” (Romans 8:14). • He produces heavenly wisdom—“pure, then peace-loving, gentle” (James 3:17). • He fosters trust over self-reliance—“lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5-6). In practical terms: 1. Before deciding, pause to ask, “Does this glorify Christ and reflect the Spirit’s fruit?” 2. Weigh choices against clear biblical commands. 3. Seek counsel from Spirit-led believers (Proverbs 11:14). 4. Proceed in faith, confident the Spirit can redirect if needed (Acts 16:6-7). Practical Steps to Remain Spirit-Filled • Saturate your mind with Scripture daily (Colossians 3:16). • Keep short accounts with God—confess sin promptly (1 John 1:9). • Cultivate gratitude and worship; they open the heart to His influence (Ephesians 5:19-20). • Engage in fellowship; the Spirit often speaks through the body of Christ (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Serve others; obedience invites fresh filling (Acts 4:31). Living “filled with the Spirit” transforms both our relationships and our choices, reflecting Christ’s character in every sphere of life. |
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