SEALED BY THE SPIRIT
…When you believed, you were marked in Him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of His glory.
Ephesians 1:13b-14 (NIV)
There’s something profoundly comforting about knowing you’re secure—like when you finally find a job offer in writing or hear your name called when a reservation is confirmed. It's the assurance that you belong.
Paul describes the Holy Spirit as a seal and a deposit. From the moment we believe in Jesus, He marks us as His and gives us the Holy Spirit—not after we become good enough at faith, but at the moment our faith begins. And with the Spirit comes gifts for ministry and service to the church.
This is a vital truth, especially for those who feel unqualified. Spiritual gifts aren’t for a select few with Bible degrees or long church resumes. They’re for every believer. If you’ve trusted Christ, the Spirit has sealed and gifted you. You don’t need to wait to get spiritual enough to be used by God.
Author Francis Chan once wrote, If it’s true that the Spirit of God dwells in us and that our bodies are the Holy Spirit’s temple, then shouldn’t there be a huge difference between the person who has the Spirit of God living inside of him or her and the one who does not?
You’re not empty. You’re not powerless. You have been filled and equipped by the very presence of God.
APPLICATION: Take some time to accept the truth that you’re sealed by the Holy Spirit. Reflect on how that changes the way you see yourself today. Instead of waiting to be more qualified or confident, ask God to show you where your gift is needed. Step into service with the quiet confidence that comes from knowing Who lives in you.
PRAYER: Holy Spirit, thank You for marking me as God’s own. I don’t want to live like I’m still waiting for something more. Help me believe that You’ve already equipped me for what You’re calling me to do. Please fill me with boldness, humility and a willingness to serve. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?