Four Ways to Live out of the Overflow

A couple of years ago, I learned that I was not drinking enough fluid, and this was impacting my health adversely.  I ended up in the office of a specialist who sat me down and advised me that I needed to be more proactive about staying hydrated.   Water is life to the body.  Without it, the organs begin to shut down.  You can’t run on empty for long.

Similarly, it’s important to fill up spiritually with the living water of the Holy Spirit.  If I am not mindful of this truth, I forget to drink up, and I start to grow unhealthy in my walk as a disciple.  A pastor once told me that sharing our faith with others should come naturally out of “the overflow.”  As we allow God to pour into our lives, His goodness splashes out to those in our circle of influence who are seeking to find a well for their parched souls. 

How do you live out of the overflow so that your life refreshes others? 

Love sacrificially
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children  and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:1-2, NIV).

 “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God” (Philippians 1: 9-11).

Worship with reckless abandon
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:18-19).

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13).

 Cultivate thankfulness
“...always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 5:19)

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful” (Colossians 3:15).

 Lead a surrendered life of service
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5:21).

“ Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace” (Romans 8:5-6)


This world is full of people who are craving for more.   We have the water that will help them to thirst no more.  As we love others and make melody in our hearts, our “overflow” will create an appetite in others for what truly satisfies.   

About Lyli

Lyli Dunbar loves teaching.  For 17 years, she mentored teenagers in the Christian school setting, and now she has serves as Associate Director of Curriculum at Trinity International University Florida. Lyli married her Prince Charming in her 40’s and has a heart for encouraging young couples and singles in God’s waiting room.  She enjoys road trips with her husband, connecting with women through Bible study, and reading way too many books. Lyli writes about life lessons and faith on herpersonal blog. You may also connect with her on Facebook,Twitter, and Pinterest.

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