Getting On Fire With Our Lives

How do we get “on fire†with our lives?

John the Baptist pointed to the way when he baptized Christ:

“I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.†(Matthew 3:11 NIV)

Baptism means a changing the inner self, being ignited and ablaze with Kingdom life. It requires being receptive, repentant, and sincere (not superficial).

“The genius of Christian baptism, however, is to be found not merely in its symbolic significance but in its actual effect in the life of the believer. Spirit baptism is always vitally related to faith. Only through responsive faith to the regenerative work of Christ does the soul participate in Spirit baptism and, simultaneously, in vital union with God.“ (Zondervan Illustrated Bible Dictionary)

What does it mean to “be on fire†with our spiritual lives? It is:

A refined life more ready to rely on God
A burning away of what doesn’t belong in our lives
A guiding light bringing wisdom to decisions and actions
An empowering courage and zeal to share the Gospel, help the needy, and defend the faith
An overwhelming sense of God’s presence in our lives
A heart burning with love, gratitude, and desire to draw closer to Him
A holy restlessness to fuel acts of service, justice, and mercy.

Be baptized with the Holy Spirit or rekindle the fire already in you.