You Are Inspired

You've heard it before — maybe from your best friend, or your husband or wife. You are special. It's true. You've got some talents and some skills, but that's not what sets you apart.

You have been inspired. You've been filled by the Holy Spirit. Take a moment to think about that.

God himself lives in you. In John 1, we read about the Word becoming flesh. In The Message it says that, The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood. The same thing happened when you were filled with the Holy Spirit  — God moved in.

He is with you when you get up in the morning, before you've had your coffee. He's there in the car for your commute. He is with you when you discipline your children or determine your monthly budget. And this is GREAT NEWS!

You don't have to obey Jesus in your own strength. All you have to do is learn to rely on the Holy Spirit and trust him to live in and through you.

Practice spiritual breathing.

Just as you need to constantly breathe physically, you need to breathe spiritually. Practice spiritual breathing as a way of relying on the Holy Spirit throughout your day. When you realize you've sinned, or when temptation, stress or doubt weighs on your mind, you can:

1. Exhale: Confess your sin the moment you become aware of it, agreeing with God concerning it and thanking him for his forgiveness, according to 1 John 1:9 and Hebrews 10:1,25. Confession requires repentance — a whole-hearted return to the Lordship of Christ. Let go any of worry, fear or self-reliance through prayer.

2. Inhale: Surrender control of your life to Christ, and trust the Holy Spirit to fill you with his presence and power, according to his command (Ephesians 5:18) and promise (1 John 5:14-15). Let go any of worry, fear or self-reliance through prayer.

Keep short accounts with God. Remember, you are never alone. You are INSPIRED!

Holy Spirit, thank you for dwelling within me. I surrender my heart and life to you today. I want to obey the Father wholeheartedly. I confess that I am not perfect and I need you. When I am tempted to go my own way, give me the strength and courage to do what you have called me to do. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Additional Resource: Here is a video on how you are inspired