Sunday, Dec 15

Scriptures: Romans 15:13 (NIV) – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Message: One evening, I connected my cell phone to the cord, but it wouldn’t charge. I thought my phone was broken, until I realized the cord wasn’t plugged into the outlet. Yet, the power had always been available!

As Christians, our divine power source is the Holy Spirit. This experience with my phone prompted me to ask: “Am I staying fully charged?”.

In preparing our hearts for Christmas, we’re reminded that Jesus came not only to save us, but also to fill us with His Spirit. The third person of the Trinity dwells in us because of salvation. As Believers living under the new covenant, we are promised to be filled with the Spirit.

Life and holiday plans can clutter our days with such busyness that we don’t prioritize our relationship with Jesus, or stay fully plugged in. When we neglect to call upon the Holy Spirit as our advocate, comforter, counselor and guide – and lose awareness of His presence within us – we can start to run low on spiritual strength, wisdom, and joy.

In this broken world, it’s impossible to successfully live life in our own strength. Maybe what we really need this Christmas isn’t more lights, gifts, or busy plans – but a “Holy Spirit Christmas.”¹ A season where we slow down, seek Him, listen, and let His presence recharge our hearts.

When we’re connected to Him through prayer, worship, fellowship with Believers, and reading the Word, our gratitude grows, peace returns, and joy overflows. We are guided, comforted, and empowered to live in the fullness of God’s love, and to share Jesus with others.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for sending Jesus and the gift of Your Holy Spirit to dwell within me. Help me to remain continually filled as I call upon the Holy Spirit and remember Your abundant benefits. Thank You, Father, for blessing me with Your presence, peace, joy, faith, and power as I rest in Your love and grace, while beholding Your glorious Son! In Jesus’ precious name. Amen.

Michele Hudson