The pressing need or desire these days, for both old and young, is to be more spiritual.

There’s certainly nothing wrong with that.

But just try to get someone to define what that looks like.

Filled with the Spirit. This is practically a mantra for my friend Bob. “We need to be filled with the Spirit.”

Well, DUH!!

How do we do it, though? Where’s the manual or pamphlet with step-by-step instructions?

There are no short cuts, no pat answers. The problem is us. Our problems are the problem. Instead of believing and trusting the promises of God, we allow Satan to have free rent in our head. Jesus did not endure everything he went through so we could have a cup partially full. He came that we may have life and have it abundantly. We were not made to settle. The full, abundant life has nothing to do with material possessions. Many missionaries have observed in remote, poor places in the world, that their joy is full! When they have Christ Jesus, they have everything they need!

When we view life through spiritual lenses, we are overcomers. Even our moments that we are not proud of can be overcome by God’s mercy and grace. Focus on the promises, not the problems. Don’t let your soul be downcast. Worship, prayer, praise, Bible study – these are all opportunities to find JOY! The body of Christ gives us support and guidance. The Holy Spirit, Jesus, the angels – all of them are interceding for you.

Read Hebrews 12:1-3 to discover God’s promises for you, His unconditional love for you. You will grow spiritually and overcome the problems in your life.

Pastor Art