Devoid of the Spirit

Jude's short letter is an urgent warning. People had quietly slipped into the church and were leading others astray, and Jude wanted the believers to see them clearly. He describes them bluntly: "These are the ones who cause divisions, who are worldly and devoid of the Spirit."

They may have looked religious. They may have spoken in spiritual language and taken part in the church's gatherings. But inside, they were empty of the Spirit of God, and the fruit of that emptiness was division.

It is a sobering reminder that it is possible to have all the outward signs of faith and still be hollow inside. We can be busy with church, fluent in Christian words and familiar with every routine, yet lack the Spirit's life.

Jude does not leave his readers in fear, though. He tells them how to stay full and steady: build yourselves up in your most holy faith, pray in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, and wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The best protection against spiritual emptiness is not anxious effort, but staying close to God.

Reflect

• Is my faith alive with the Spirit's presence, or have I slipped into going through the outward motions?
• What is one practical way I can build myself up in faith, prayer and God's love this week?

Prayer: Holy Spirit, thank you for living in me and making my faith alive. Fill me afresh today. Keep me from empty religion that looks right but has no life, and keep me close to you, rooted in prayer and held in the love of God. In Jesus' Name, Amen.