Many of us walking this journey with Jesus share the same uneasy feeling — I’m saved, but I’m stuck. You love Jesus, yet feel spiritually dry. What’s missing isn’t a new plan; it’s a fresh filling. The Holy Spirit isn’t just a concept to believe in — He’s a Person to know. He’s not distant or impersonal. He is God’s presence within us, ready to fill us, lead us, and give us power. This week, we’ll explore what it means to be filled and empowered by the Spirit.
- If you could receive a “double portion” of someone else’s positive trait or skill (like Elisha asked for Elijah’s spirit), whose would you pick and why? It could be a friend, family member, historical figure, or Biblical character.
- Read 2 Kings 2:1-14. In this passage, we see Elisha’s determination to stay with Elijah until the very end. What stands out most to you about Elisha’s persistence in this passage?
- In the sermon, Pastor James explains that Elisha’s request for a “double portion” wasn’t about desiring Elijah’s gifts but about the same Spirit that empowered him. What do you think Elisha understood about the source of Elijah’s power?
- God still answers hunger. The Spirit still fills those who truly want Him. When was the last time you felt that hungry? Not just attending church. Not going through the motions. But truly desperate for the Spirit of God to move in your life.
- Romans 8:4-6 talks about living “according to the Spirit” rather than “according to the flesh.” How would you explain the difference between these two ways of living based on this passage?
- Elisha had to pass through four symbolic places before receiving the mantle. Why do you think God often guides us through a process instead of instantly empowering us?
- At Gilgal, we’re challenged to “cut off what’s holding you back.” The pastor mentioned that this is where consecration happens. It’s where you decide if the weight of your past will follow you into the future God has planned. What areas of your life might the Holy Spirit be asking you to surrender or “cut off” right now? What are you clinging to that’s quietly killing your calling?
- At Bethel, we’re invited to “pursue God for who He is” rather than just what He can do for us. God will lead you to Bethel, and when He does, it’s never by chance. It’s always on purpose because Bethel is where He confronts your motives. How would you describe the difference between seeking God’s gifts and seeking His presence?
- Bethel is where God presses on your soul and asks, “If I didn’t fix it, would you still want Me? If I didn’t heal it, would I still be enough?” That’s when it gets real. Will you pursue God for who He is, or are you only chasing what He can do?
- The Jericho stage involves “obeying even if it doesn’t make sense.” Jericho isn’t where you show off your strength—it’s where you surrender your strategy. It’s where you lay down control. And this is where so many people miss their moment. Because obedience doesn’t always feel powerful. But Spirit-empowered living doesn’t start with a shout. It starts with a step. Quiet steps. Risky steps. Steps that say, “I wouldn’t choose this path… but if You’re in it, I’m walking it.” Can you share a time when God asked you to do something that seemed illogical, but you chose to obey anyway? What happened?
- The Jordan represents “walking in the calling God created you for.” The Jordan is where everything shifts. This is the place of calling. It’s where you realize God didn’t save you just to improve your life—He filled you to fulfill His purpose. The Jordan is where the Spirit empowers you, not for ease, but for mission. It’s where you declare, “My life is Yours. Use me for Your glory.” Do you have clarity about your spiritual calling? If not, try the 40-day challenge listed below. What could keep you from taking on the challenge?
40-Day Challenge: For the next 40 days, first thing in the morning, prostrate yourself before God and pray the following prayer. Your posture here is important; humbling yourself before God acknowledges who He is and who you are not. Don’t pray this sitting, standing, or kneeling, get down on your face before God.
