Spirit-filled Life
Bravery & joy in the absence of liquid courage
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And do not get drunk with wine, which is debauchery, but be filled by the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music in your hearts to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,
Ephesians 5:18-20 (NET)
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I’m not sure how literal Paul was being here when he gave us this advice.
I’ve heard a lot of teachers talk about how alcohol removes inhibitions, making it easier for people to do things they would normally avoid. Especially embarrassing things. And embarrassment is mostly the fear of losing status in the eyes of people.
Is it a fair comparison to talk about the Holy Spirit removing some of our spiritual inhibitions?
Maybe. Maybe not.
For sure the Holy Spirit can fill us with courage that we’ve never had before. Especially in the face of persecution.
No “liquid courage” needed.
Paul also gives us a picture of how being filled with the Spirit can make us joyful & thankful.
Singing songs to people tends to happen when we’re happy. I’ve noticed that I never want to sing out loud if I’m in a bad mood. Or even in a neutral mood.
But if I’m in a joyful mood?
Then I’ll occasionally sing a melody.
Other family members sing more often than me, but the sentiment is the same.
Also, I know that Paul ends the verse here talking about thankfulness, but I often see that this attitude of gratitude comes before the joy. In other words, being thankful to God for all His goodness often puts me in a joyful mood. And that’s when I want to spread that joy.
So, the challenge today is to think about the things you’re thankful to God for.
See if that puts you in a joyful mood.
— Ricky Ketchum
Copyright © 2025 by Ricky Ketchum. All rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication prohibited.
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