“I therefore, as a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of Sprit in the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:1-2 ESV)
Our only hope of ‘walking in a manner worth of the calling” is realized in the infilling of the Holy Spirit. Apart from His inhabitation, we will always walk with the marked limp of fallen man. It is only with the help of the Holy Spirit searing through our flesh and blood that we’ll summon the brawn to live out our calling. He is the power at work, the raw strength in our inner being. He brings Christ to life in us. The same power that raised our Savior the grave lives and breathes life back into us!
“He may grant you to be strengthened with the power through His Holy spirit in your inner being so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith…” (Ephesians 3:16-17 ESV)
So much of the modern day church has decided that the Holy Spirit’s movement was limited to the first century. That, or maybe even worse, they’ve neutered His power to a quiet leading and occasional goosebumps when a good song comes on. He is so much more than subtle whispers and goosebumps. He is essential to our success in Christian living. Of course our enemy will try to defame and demote Him! When God’s people are unplugged from His Spirit we are rendered about as effective as a chainsaw apart from a power source.
But don’t take my word for it. Search scriptures. Pray and ask God for insight. Quiet your heart and see that there is a better equipping for this Christian life that we are called to. Realize that He’s ready to come take up residence in your flesh, if you’ll allow it. He’s prepared to lead, teach, correct, empower, implore and equip. Holy Spirit works in sync with the Father’s good plans and in step with Jesus’ teaching. He’s here to help if you’ll only open the door to His indwelling.
Lord, today we recognize how disempowered we are on our own. The call is greater than our ability to answer it. We need Your help. Help us see how Your Holy Spirit meets this need. May we be open to Your infilling; initially and repeatedly. Inhabit our flesh today. Reign in all areas of our lives. May Your will be done in us and through us. Amen.