What does it mean to be filled with the Spirit?
The filling or controlling of the
Holy Spirit is a profound reality in the believer's life and understanding it
can change your life. “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to
debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit” - Ephesians 5:18
God has commanded us "be filled
with the Spirit." God commands it. Being continually filled with the
Spirit is not an option for the believer but a biblical mandate. The idea
"to be filled" is plural in this passage. The context of this passage
is addressing husbands and wives, children and parents, employers and
employees; the command is addressed to every believer. The verb is also present
tense, indicating that it's an ongoing command: "Constantly, moment by
moment, be controlled by and filled with the Spirit."
Believers
have tremendous responsibilities that they must fulfill. We should look at the
obligation for our life of worship. It is to be alive with joy and the reality
of Christ; this is the overflow of the Spirit-filled life (v. 19; John 4:24).
We have an obligation in our marriage life (Eph. 5:21, 25). Love and submission
cannot be displayed apart from the power of the Spirit.
Ephesians
5:18 is God's reminder that we are to use our time and opportunity wisely. While
Christians should want to be filled with the Spirit to have power in serving,
they often want to be filled to have pleasure in living. They see the
Spirit-filled life as a source for enjoyment rather than a force for
employment. Acts 1:8 tells us that we are given the power of God to preach the
gospel; our opportunities are a reason to be Spirit filled.
Look today for
opportunities to be Spirit led and “preach the Gospel” to the world around you.
