Rev. Trevor Johnston
Series: DDIY – Don’t Do It Yourself (Life is Better with Some Help)
Week 7: Asking for the Greatest Gift


Luke 11:5-13 New International Version (NIV)





Read the passage above (Luke 11:5-13). Pastor Trevor explained that the central theme repeated throughout this passage was the concept of asking. In particular, verse thirteen mentions asking for the Holy Spirit.

  1. Has there been a time when you had to make a strange or bold request? Share the story with the group.

Why should we ask for the Holy Spirit?

Christians have conflicting viewpoints on when a person is filled with the Holy Spirit, whether in the moment of conversion or at a later moment. Look up Romans 8:9 and Acts 8:14-17.

  1. What does each of these passages seem to say? How can they be reconciled?


  • Full Access does not mean full experience.


  1. What do you think Pastor Trevor meant by this?


  • We can be filled multiple times.


In Acts 2:4, the disciples are filled with the Holy Spirit. In Acts 4:31, they are filled again. This confirms that we can be filled multiple times. Pastor Trevor explained that while many people picture a cup that is filled once, being filled with the Spirit is more like living waters flowing through us continually.

  1. How does this effect your understanding of being filled with the Spirit?


  • We are commanded to be filled.


  1. Ephesians 5:18 says,Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.” How might recognizing that this as a command effect our attitude toward being filled with the Spirit?

What does it mean to be Spirit-filled?

  • Deeper awareness of the relationship


  1. Describe a time when you felt a deeper level of connection with God.


  • Greater results of the relationship

Pastor Trevor shared his first experience with desiring the Holy Spirit. He explained that he saw something different in his dad and brother and thought, “Whatever it is, I want it.”

  1. Do you have someone in your life who shows evidence of being filled with the Holy Spirit? Who is that person?

How to ask for the Holy Spirit:

  • Audaciously Ask


  1. What hesitations might keep someone from asking boldly?


  1. Have you ever experienced any of those hesitations?


  • Pursue the filling of the Holy Spirit with all your heart and soul.


  1. Sometimes we are not thirsty for the Holy Spirit. What are some things we could do to renew this thirst?

Look back at Luke 5:11-13. Just like an earthly father would feed his children, and would never give them something harmful, God promises us that He will not leave us hanging. We can trust that He will give us the Holy Spirit when we ask.

  1. Do you find yourself doubting that God will really give you the Holy Spirit?


  1. What would trusting God look like in your life this week?

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