2 - "I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day. . ."

What Does That Mean?

Let’s picture John, stranded on that lonely island called Patmos. He was cut off from friends and the comforts of home.

But John said something powerful: “I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and I heard a great voice behind me.”

Even with trouble all around, God opened John’s ears and lifted his heart. Why? Because John was willing to let the Spirit carry him above the mess.

Is Living in the Spirit Practical?

Romans puts it simply: “If God’s Spirit lives in you, you’re in the Spirit—not just living in the flesh.”

In plain words, the Holy Spirit is inside every believer. Real Christian living is all about learning to listen to Him and let Him lead—every kind of day, good or bad.

That’s the whole goal: getting comfortable with God being in charge.

What Does “In the Spirit” Really Mean?

We all know what it feels like to be out of step at a family meal—just distracted or not “in the moment.” It’s the same spiritually.

Being “in the Spirit” means tuning in to God’s channel—heart open, ready for whatever He wants to speak or do.

John could’ve spent his time sulking in exile, but instead, he chose to let the Spirit give him hope and freedom—even in a hard place.

Lifted Above the Mess

“In the Spirit” isn’t just about escaping your problems. It’s about God’s presence meeting you right where you are, giving enabling grace and focus.

It’s like God opens a window and lets fresh air into your soul. When life gets tough, the Spirit gives you the “lift” you need to keep going.

Stay Focused on Jesus

John wasn’t stewing about his problems. He was fixed on Jesus. That’s the secret. The Holy Spirit has one main job: keep us focused on Jesus and help us know Him.

If our eyes drift to lesser things—worries, distractions—we slip away from His help. But when we set our sights on Christ, the Spirit brings us comfort, a friend for every step, and renewed focus.

Spotting Jesus in Everyday Life

This is a powerful truth: when we’re “in the Spirit,” we actually start to notice Jesus at work—in people, in church gatherings, even in tough times.

Without that focus, we’re quick to spot everyone’s faults and miss what God’s up to. Seeing with Spirit-led eyes helps us spot God’s hand, even in small things.

The Spirit, Our Teacher

Let’s be honest—some stuff in the Bible is hard to understand. The good news? The Holy Spirit is our lifelong Teacher.

You don’t need a sharp mind or a fancy education. God’s Spirit makes tough things clear, a little at a time. With His help, we can understand what matters most.

A Daily Tune-Up

Here’s a loving challenge from me to you: Each morning, pray and ask God to help you live “in the Spirit” for the day ahead.

When you meet with other believers, be open and tuned in—God just might use someone or something you didn’t expect.

And when trouble comes, don’t let it steal your focus. Stay adjusted to the Holy Spirit—He’ll help you hear, see, and grow right where you are.

Keep looking to Jesus. Let the Spirit fill your heart daily, and you’ll find strength, freedom, and real understanding, wherever God’s path takes you!

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