April 7, 2024 - INSCRIPTIONS FROM THE HEART

By: PS La Guardia

The Spirit-Filled Life

This month of April our pulpit focus is on the Spirit-Filled Life as we continue to remain in Him in our pursuit to live for Christ and impact lives. We read in Ephesians 5:18 (ESV) "18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,".  There is something in common between the two here, both can control one's life and Paul makes the contrast, that is, one can be under the influence or control of either getting drunk with wine which leads to the ruin of one's life or of being filled with the Holy Spirit, which leads a God-glorifying life.

The phrase "but be filled with the Spirit," the Greek present tense is used to indicate that the filling of the Spirit is not a once-for-all experience. Repeatedly, as the occasion requires, the Spirit empowers for worship, service and testimony. (NASB Study Bible Notes).

How we live our christian life will always tell and show of what really controls us. While being filled with wine leads to the ruin of one's life and on the other hand being filled with the Spirit leads to life "characterized by a series of participles in the Greek: speaking, singing, making music (v.19), giving thanks, (v.20, and submitting (v.21)" (BTSB)

What controls you affects who you are and what you become and could affect not only you but also those who are around you.

What controls your life? Reflectively and prayerfully consider this question throughout this month.