Living the Spirit-filled life as a disciple
- Josh Reading
- Apr 6
- 4 min read
How to Live a Spirit-Filled Life
Living a Spirit-filled life means more than just believing in Jesus – it’s about daily surrender, spiritual growth, and following the Holy Spirit’s guidance. This blog walks through 7 key principles to help you live as a genuine disciple of Jesus: answering His call, being led by the Spirit, building on Scripture, committing to prayer, growing in community, sharing the gospel, and living in holiness. These steps will deepen your faith and keep you aligned with God’s purpose for your life.

To Live a Spirit-Filled Life You Must Follow the Example of a Disciple
A Spirit-filled life extends beyond belief in Jesus – it requires an ALL IN attitude of heart, mind, and soul.
Faith never thrives in an atmostphere of reluctance and considered human wisdom. Godly wisdom and faith go hand in hand but what we perceive as 'human wisdom' is often merely a mask for fear. Fear of circumstance, fear of man, fear of failure.
We are continually transformed as we grow in faith, deepen our connection with God, and pursue His purpose for us.
So how do we apply this to our everyday lives?
Here are seven spiritual principles that help us live as authentic disciples of Christ under the Holy Spirit's leading.
1. Answering the Call to Follow Jesus
Jesus didn’t just ask people to believe in Him — He commanded them to follow.
“Come, follow me, and I will send you out to fish for people.” — Matthew 4:19 (NIV)
This was more than an invitation; it was a call to a completely new lifestyle.Discipleship means laying down your personal plans and picking up God's purpose.
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” — Luke 9:23 (NIV)
To live a Spirit-filled life is to choose Jesus over comfort, familiarity, or routine. It’s a commitment to a higher calling.
2. Let the Holy Spirit Guide Your Steps
One of God’s greatest gifts to us is the Holy Spirit.
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses...” — Acts 1:8 (NIV)
The Spirit empowers us to live boldly, overcome challenges, and proclaim Jesus fearlessly.
Trying to follow Christ in our own strength won’t cut it. But when we live by the Spirit:
“So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” — Galatians 5:16 (NIV)
“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth.” — John 16:13 (NIV)
Through the Spirit, we gain wisdom, boldness, and deep relationship with God.
3. Build Your Life on God’s Word
The Bible isn’t just ancient text — it’s the foundation of spiritual life.
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” — 2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV)
Even Jesus used Scripture to fight temptation:
“Jesus answered, ‘It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” — Matthew 4:4 (NIV)
A Spirit-filled life means we consume God’s Word daily so it shapes our thoughts, decisions, and actions.
4. Cultivate a Strong Prayer Life
Prayer isn’t just for emergencies or mealtime. It’s our lifeline to God.
“But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” — Luke 5:16 (NIV)
Even Jesus prioritised time with the Father. How much more should we?
“Pray continually.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (NIV)
Make prayer a daily rhythm, not a checklist. Through it, we stay connected to the Spirit, find clarity, and receive strength.
5. Grow in Community
Following Jesus is not a solo mission. We grow best with others.
The early church modelled this beautifully:
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” — Acts 2:42 (NIV)
Spiritual maturity thrives in community — through small groups, Sunday worship, and real friendships.
Find your people. Build each other up. You’re not meant to do this alone.
6. Share the Good News
Disciples don’t just receive the message — they pass it on.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations...” — Matthew 28:19 (NIV)
When you’re living by the Spirit, your life becomes a living testimony of God’s love.
Evangelism doesn’t require a stage or a mic — just a willingness to share what Jesus has done for you and to trust the Spirit to do the rest.
7. Pursue a Life of Holiness
A Spirit-filled life is one dedicated to God.
“But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.” — 1 Peter 1:15 (NIV)
Holiness is not about perfection. It’s about letting the Spirit transform you.
It's saying no to sin, yes to growth, and surrendering your habits, thoughts, and desires to God's refining fire — one day at a time.
Conclusion: Walking with the Spirit Daily
Living with the Spirit isn’t just about witnessing miracles — it’s about daily surrender.
You respond to His call
You rely on His strength
You immerse in His Word
You stay in prayer
You grow in community
You share His truth
You pursue holiness
This is how believers become disciples.
And in that journey, we experience the abundant life Jesus promised, breaking away from the constraints of human religion and diving into everything Jesus has for us.
“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” — John 10:10 (NIV)
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