What does it mean?

Alive in the Spirit... just what does that mean? Are we talking about casting out demons... healing by the laying on of hands... or speaking in tongues? Certainly, those are spiritual gifts, but we're not talking about the "shock and awe" types of spiritual gifts, we're just talking about being alive. Take your spiritual pulse, and see how alive you are.

Are you breathing in God's Word on a regular basis? Are you in regular study in the Bible? Are you supporting, and giving support to a Bible Study group? Are you being held accountable? Are you honoring your commitment to others? Do you find yourself wishing you knew more of the Bible, but only rarely really getting into God's Word?

How's the color of your prayer life? Perhaps a bit pale? Do you set aside a regular time for prayer? Are you praying with, and for others? Is your prayer life on life support provided by the pastor on Sunday morning?

What are your fellowship levels? Are you involved in any groups, teams, or committees? Are you suffering from fellowship anemia? Do you slide into worship late, and then just slip out early? Is that fellowship? How can we worship without fellowship?

And how big is your capacity for giving? You are probably not outgiving God. How's your tithe? How much of yourself are you giving, for that matter? Are you planting seed for future harvests, or just waiting for someone else to make bread for you?

Finally, how's your spiritual strength? Are you so busy holding tight to the things of the world that you have no way to hold onto any spiritual power. If we want to pick up something, we need to lay down whatever we are currently holding fast to. How can there be any room for God's Spirit in us, when we are so full of earthly things?

So, for this week, post how you feel alive in God's Spirit... or add your perspective to what I've written.

Your Brother in Christ, Dave