The Way DAY 9 - Full of the Holy Spirit

Day 9: Full of the Holy Spirit

Luke 4:1-2; Romans 5:5

After his baptism, “Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days…”

After a spiritual high, Jesus faces the depths. He’s fasting, eating nothing for 40 days. He’s also isolated - no contact with other people. It sounds like Jesus is running on empty. How do you feel when you’re running on empty? Many people’s emotions are more easily triggered. It’s even worse when we’re hungry! 

Jesus was physically empty but spiritually full. He’s “full of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 5:5 says, “God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.” The Holy Spirit fills us with God’s love. That means Jesus was full of God’s love. Jesus went into spiritual battle fully aware of how much the Father loves him.

Do you know how uplifting, how empowering, it is when someone says, “I love you?” Do you remember the first time someone told you, “I love you?” Probably not because you were so young. But it shaped you in ways you can’t imagine. If you weren’t told, it hurt you in ways you can’t imagine. You can probably remember when someone you really respected or cared about said, “I love you.” 

Knowing and feeling that you are loved fills you up. You feel confident - unstoppable! That’s Jesus after his baptism. It can be you today.

REFLECT
When have you felt confident and full because you knew you were loved? Have you ever felt that way because God loves you?

PRAY
Father, you love me. Thank you! I love you. As I pause now with open hands and open heart, fill me with your Holy Spirit. Come, Holy Spirit. Fill me up again, Spirit of love. Amen.