Daily devotion – filled or faulty
Be Filled with the Spirit
Ephesians 5:18
And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.
In this verse, Paul instructs us not simply to be filled with the Spirit once but to “keep on being filled”—a continuous action. It’s not just a one-time experience or something reserved for special occasions. Rather, it’s an ongoing process that we should seek every day.
The Greek tense of “be filled” is in the present, indicating that we are to be filled constantly. But it’s also in the passive voice, which means that this is not something we can do ourselves. We don’t fill ourselves with the Holy Spirit; instead, we open our hearts and lives to allow the Holy Spirit to fill us.
Unlike physical filling, this is not about receiving a set amount of spiritual fuel to keep us going. The term “filled” here means being controlled by the Holy Spirit. To be filled with the Spirit means that our mind, emotions, and will are continuously under the influence and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Paul outlines three key evidences that indicate a believer is filled with the Spirit:
Joyfulness – Ephesians 5:19
A joyful heart that sings praises and makes melody to the Lord reflects the Spirit’s presence.
Thankfulness – Ephesians 5:20
A thankful attitude in all circumstances is a mark of a Spirit-filled life.
Submissiveness – Ephesians 5:21-33
Living in humility and submission to one another, out of reverence for Christ, shows the Spirit’s work in us.
Paul doesn’t mention miracles or extraordinary signs as evidence of being filled with the Spirit. Instead, he emphasizes these simple, yet profound, qualities: joy, thankfulness, and submission.
Each day, we can examine ourselves to see if we are filled with the Spirit. Am I joyful in the Lord? Am I thankful in every situation? Am I living in submission to God’s will and to others?
When I notice a lack of joy, gratitude, or a spirit of rebellion in my heart, I recognize that I am not allowing the Holy Spirit to control me. Instead, I am trying to run things my way. But when I yield to the Holy Spirit, His presence brings joy, thankfulness, and a willingness to submit to God’s perfect will.
This week, take time each day to check yourself. Are you under the control of the Holy Spirit, or are you trying to take control of your life? Invite the Holy Spirit to fill and guide you, and watch how your heart and actions reflect His influence.