Have you ever felt like you were called to do something important, but you didn’t quite feel equipped or capable enough? Maybe it was a challenge at school, a responsibility at home, or a desire to make a difference in your community. That feeling of inadequacy is something we all face, but God has a solution: He empowers us for His purpose.
Our key verse, Acts 1:8, gives us a powerful promise from Jesus: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” This verse tells us that the Holy Spirit doesn’t just change us; He also empowers us to fulfill God’s plan for our lives. Let’s explore what it means to be “empowered for purpose.”
Think about what a witness does. A witness tells what they have seen and heard. They share their experience. Jesus says that when the Holy Spirit comes, we will receive power to be His witnesses. This isn’t just about standing up in front of a crowd (though it can include that). It’s about:
- Sharing our story: Telling others how Jesus has changed our lives.
- Living differently: Letting our actions and attitudes reflect Jesus’ love.
- Speaking up for truth: Defending what we believe and sharing the good news.
The Holy Spirit gives us the courage, the words, and the ability to do these things.
Acts 1:8 also describes the scope of this witness. It starts local (“Jerusalem,” “Judea”) and expands to the global (“the ends of the earth”). This shows us that God’s plan for us isn’t limited. We might start small, sharing our faith with our family and friends, but God can use us to reach people we never imagined. It’s like ripples in a pond. You drop a pebble, and the ripples spread out and out. The Holy Spirit empowers us to make an impact, starting where we are, and then reaching further and further.
It’s important to understand that this power isn’t something we generate on our own. It’s not about our own strength or ability. The Bible tells us, “‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty” (Zechariah 4:6). The Holy Spirit is the source of our power. He equips us, enables us, and works through us to accomplish God’s purposes. It’s like plugging into a power source that is far greater than ourselves.
Think about the different tasks God calls us to do. Some might be big and visible, like leading a group or speaking to many people. Others might seem small and ordinary, like showing kindness to a neighbor or being patient with a difficult person. But no matter what the task is, the Holy Spirit empowers us for it. He gives us the specific gifts and abilities we need. He might give us words of wisdom, a heart of compassion, or the ability to organize and lead.
When we receive the Holy Spirit’s power, we discover a life of purpose. We realize that we’re not just here to live for ourselves, but to be part of something bigger than ourselves – God’s plan to bring His love and truth to the world. This doesn’t mean life will always be easy. We may face challenges and opposition. But we can have confidence that God is with us, empowering us every step of the way. So, let’s embrace the power of the Holy Spirit. Let’s ask Him to equip us for the tasks God has given us. And let’s step out in faith, knowing that He will enable us to make a difference in the world, for His glory.