JULY 23, Ephesians 5:18, 1 John 1:9-10 

It is increasingly popular for people to drink wine or other alcoholic drinks. Wine appreciation courses are seen to be classy and fashionable. It is a fact that consumption of wine affects a person’s judgement and emotions. So it is not surprising to read of drunk-driving accidents and how people get into fights and other kinds of trouble when drunk. All these result from people not taking control of themselves but allowing themselves to be controlled by alcohol.

The verse today warns believers not to be filled with wine but with the Holy Spirit. Clearly the idea is that Christians are to be filled with and controlled by the Holy Spirit and not be like drunkards who are controlled by alcohol.

To be filled with the Spirit, we must first be empty of ourselves. Think about it - before we can fill a bottle which is already full with Liquid Y, with Liquid X, the original content must first be emptied.

Likewise for us, we have to let ourselves decrease and let the Holy Spirit increase in our lives. That will mean we must confess and repent of our sins. Day by day, as we read God’s Word, as we pray, the Holy Spirit will bring to remembrance the things we have done wrong. As soon as we know about them, we must quickly ask for forgiveness. No matter how big or how ugly the sin is, the Lord is faithful and just to forgive for He loves us.

Have you confessed these sins? Do it now.

• Telling lies about your homework, studies, results...

• Getting angry, scolding or being unkind...

• Being selfish and caring only for yourself...

• Being lazy and playing instead of studying and helping parents...

Thought: I must empty myself of sins so the Holy Spirit can fill me.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I know I have sinned and for the Holy Spirit to fill me, I must first empty myself of sin, and wrong thoughts, and anything that will draw me away from Christ. Help me, Heavenly Father, for I pray humbly in Jesus’ name, Amen.