Want To Be More Filled With The Spirit? – Sunday Thought For The Day

For today’s “Sunday Thought” I would like to share an important way to have a closer walk with the Lord, which is taken from the late theologian, C.S. Lewis. (journeyingwithJesus)  It is simplistic in its instruction, but a powerful way to have God the Holy Spirit minister to us and shape us.

Lewis shares that every night before closing our eyes for sleep, we should pray the following four things:

1) We should pray: Holy Spirit fill me:

The Holy Spirit is our comforter and guide, promised by Jesus himself.  In John 14:26 (KJV), we read: “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” 

When we pray Holy Spirit fill me, we are inviting the presence of God to take over our thoughts, feelings, and even our dreams.  This simple request allows God to fill us with peace, joy and strength even as we sleep.  Every day is an opportunity for growth as we fall asleep, asking the Holy Spirit to fill us makes room for divine rest. 

2) We should pray: Holy Spirit, teach me:

C.S. Lewis in his writings, often emphasizes the importance of learning and growing in faith.  Before we sleep, it’s a beautiful practice to say: “Holy Spirit, teach me.”  This can be a request for wisdom, understanding or even revelation about areas in our life where we need growth.

The Holy Spirit is always willing to teach us.  We need only to ask.  In the quiet of the night as our bodies rest, the Holy Spirit can teach us things that might have been unclear during the day.

Sometimes God speaks in subtle whispers – whether through scripture, dreams or a still small voice in our heart.  We should make it a habit to seek His teaching before we sleep; and trust that He will impart wisdom, clarity, and direction for tomorrow.

3) We should pray: Holy Spirit, protect me:

Nighttime can sometimes bring feelings of vulnerability.  We’re no longer in control, and in the stillness the mind may wander to anxious thoughts.  By saying Holy Spirit, protect me; we are calling upon God’s divine protection over our body, mind and spirit.  In Psalm 4:8 (KJV) we read: “I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.”

When we surrender to God’s protection, we place our trust in His ability to guard us from harm, fear and nightmares.  The Holy Spirit is not only a guide, but a shield around us.  He fights our spiritual battles even when we are asleep.  We must trust in His protection knowing that He is always with us, and will keep us safe from the enemy’s attacks.

4) We should pray: Holy Spirit, renew my spirit:

Sleep is a time of physical renewal; but it is also an opportunity for spiritual renewal.  By saying, “Holy Spirit, renew my spirit,” we are asking for a fresh touch from God.  This prayer acknowledges that we need constant renewal in our walk with Christ.

Just as our bodies need rest, our souls need rejuvenation.  In Romans 12:2 (KJV), Paul urges us: “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”  As we drift into sleep, pray the Holy Spirit to renew your spirit, to refresh your mind, and to help you awake with a renewed sense of purpose and joy.

Before you sleep tonight, take a moment to pray these four powerful petitions to the Holy Spirit.  I can personally attest that praying these four petitions to the Holy Spirit each night immediately following whatever other person or thing I pray about or for before closing my eyes, has made a demonstrable difference in my spiritual life.

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