Christianity is…Spirit filled! - 10 March 2009

In a recent Ignite session we focused on the public profession of being a Christian – baptism and confirmation - and the route to being filled with the Holy Spirit. Some of the advice on the subject on the internet was akin to that of building flat pack furniture and almost comical in it’s approach if it wasn’t such a serious subject. 

During the session, we had a very lively conversation around being filled with the Holy Spirit, what the outpourings are, and the need to continually be refilled. 3 points that really struck me were

·         The Holy Spirit is important as it helps us overcome sin, resist temptation and follow Jesus Christ

·         It brings a new dimension to worship

·         It gives power and anointing and opens up ministry through spiritual gifts

I think these things really emphasise why as Christians we need to be living Spirit filled lives – and the fact that the only condition about being Spirit filled is faith in Christ. Without the Spirit, we are effectively nothing.

As usual, whilst I was working through this I found myself examining my own position and actions on the points I wanted to talk about – it’s fair to say that in most areas I was someway short of 10/10 and I realized and that I needed to take on board the consistent refilling bit again!

If like me you recognize that yet again falling short is the place where you are at – can I encourage you with the following verse.

‘If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!’   Luke 11:13

Have a great day