Embracing a Spirit-Filled Life
We live in a culture that is captivated by the “new.” Whether it’s a new car, a new job, or even a new pair of shoes, there’s something exciting about the possibility of starting fresh. But have you ever considered that this longing for newness might actually reflect something deeper? God Himself loves to make things new, and His Word shows us that this desire for newness is rooted in Him. Isaiah 43:19 says, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
If you’re ready for something new in your life, you’re not alone. God is always calling us into deeper levels of commitment, renewal, and transformation. Click the video link above for the full message on this life-changing topic.
A Desire for Newness Reflects God’s Heart
Why do we long for new things? This longing often stems from a deep understanding that there’s something better out there—something beyond our current experience. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, we see this clearly: “If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
God offers a new kind of life that transforms us from the inside out. It’s not about material possessions or fleeting experiences—it’s about becoming the person He created us to be. Revelation 21:5 also reminds us of God’s ultimate plan when Jesus says, “I am making all things new.” This isn’t just a future promise—it’s a reality He invites us into right now.
The Holy Spirit Brings New Life
The book of Acts provides a powerful picture of how God ushers in new life through His Spirit. In Acts 2, the day of Pentecost marks a turning point in history. As the disciples gathered together, “a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting” (Acts 2:2). What followed was extraordinary: tongues of fire rested on each of them, symbolizing the presence of the Holy Spirit.
This moment signified a new way of living—a Spirit-filled life where God’s presence would no longer be confined to a temple or specific leaders. Instead, His Spirit became available to all believers, equipping them with His influence, guidance, and power.
What Does It Mean to Live a Spirit-Filled Life?
Living a Spirit-filled life means having God’s presence with you wherever you go. It’s about being guided by His influence rather than relying on your own strength. The Spirit brings peace, conviction, and the ability to accomplish things you could never do on your own.
The first act of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost was to make the church multilingual and multicultural. The disciples began speaking in languages they had never learned, enabling them to share the gospel with people from every nation. This miraculous event highlights that Jesus is for everyone, breaking down every barrier of culture and language.
Jesus is the Only Way to New Life
As the crowd witnessed the events of Pentecost, Peter stood up and declared a powerful truth: Jesus is the only way to experience this new life. Quoting Joel’s prophecy, Peter explained that the Spirit’s outpouring was the fulfillment of God’s promise. He reminded them of Jesus’ death and resurrection, proclaiming, “God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah” (Acts 2:36).
The sacrificial system of the Old Testament could only temporarily cover sin. It was like an interest-only loan, constantly deferring the debt without paying it off. But Jesus’ sacrifice was different. He paid the full price for our sins, offering us forgiveness and a restored relationship with God. John 14:6 affirms this: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
The New Way Requires Conviction
When the people heard Peter’s message, they were “cut to the heart” (Acts 2:37). This deep conviction led them to ask, “What shall we do?” Peter’s response was simple: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:38).
Repentance means turning away from your old ways and choosing to follow God’s path. Baptism is an outward expression of this inward change, symbolizing your commitment to live a new life in Christ.
The New Way Brings Revival
On that day, about 3,000 people accepted Peter’s message and were baptized. This incredible moment marked the beginning of a global movement that continues to grow across generations and nations. The gospel has reached every corner of the world, and its impact is still expanding.
The new way that Jesus offers isn’t just about personal transformation—it’s about joining a movement that brings hope, healing, and redemption to others. When we step into this new life, we become part of something much bigger than ourselves.
What is the New Thing God is Calling You To?
God’s mercies are new every morning, and He is always inviting us into something greater. What new thing is He calling you into today? Maybe it’s placing your faith in Jesus for the first time. Perhaps it’s unmuting the Holy Spirit in your life or stepping into a new calling.
Whatever it is, the first step is to say yes. Be willing to trust Him, even if you don’t have all the answers. Let Him lead you into the new thing He has prepared for you.
Further Reading
Forgotten God: Reversing Our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit by Francis Chan
Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire by Jim Cymbala
Other Links
Want to hear more? Check out The Hills Community Church’s YouTube page for past messages on similar topics.
Explore additional resources and connect with us at www.thehillscommunity.church.