Being filled with the Spirit means to be under the influence, guidance, and control of the Holy Spirit, resulting in a life that reflects God’s character and will. It is not about emotional experiences but about walking in obedience and surrender to the Lord.
Ephesians 5:18 gives the command:
“And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit.”
This is a continual command, not a one-time event. It contrasts worldly influence with spiritual influence. Just as alcohol affects a person’s behavior, the Spirit shapes the believer’s actions, thoughts, and speech.
To be filled with the Spirit is to yield to His control, allowing Him to produce fruit in our lives:
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.”
(Galatians 5:22–23)
The filling of the Spirit empowers believers for service, gives boldness in witness, strengthens in trials, and enables understanding of Scripture. Acts 4:31 records:
“And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.”
Unlike the indwelling of the Spirit, which occurs at salvation, being filled is ongoing. It requires continual submission, confession of sin, and active pursuit of God’s Word and prayer.
Colossians 3:16 parallels the idea:
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom…”
A Spirit-filled life is one where the Word of God governs and the glory of Christ is the aim. It is not marked by spiritual chaos or self-promotion, but by order, reverence, and fruitfulness.
Being filled with the Spirit is not about having more of the Spirit, but about the Spirit having more of us.
