SCRIPTURE:

Acts 1:8: “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.”

DEVOTIONAL:

Before Jesus ascended, He gave a clear command: wait for the gift the Father promised. Why? Because they couldn’t fulfill their mission on human strength. In Acts 1:8, Jesus promised they would receive power—the Greek word is dynamis, where we get the word “dynamite.” This wasn’t just emotional hype or inner confidence; it was God’s supernatural power given to ordinary people to do extraordinary things for His Kingdom.

This verse directly ties the Holy Spirit’s empowerment to witnessing. The power of the Spirit isn’t for self-glorification, emotional highs, or even just internal growth. It’s power to boldly proclaim Jesus, to endure persecution, to live holy, and to carry the Gospel across every boundary—cultural, spiritual, and geographic.

Pastor Steve reminded us: the Spirit empowers us for both the mundane and the miraculous. He helps us love when it’s hard, stand when it’s costly, speak when we’d rather stay silent, and remain faithful when we’re tempted to quit. The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead lives in you (Romans 8:11)—and that means you lack nothing for the life God has called you to live.

QUESTIONS:

1. In what ways do I need Holy Spirit power to be a witness right now—at home, at work, or in my community?

2. Do I think of the Holy Spirit mainly as someone who helps me feel close to God—or do I also see Him as the One who empowers me to boldly share the Gospel with others?

3. Do I believe that the power of God is enough to sustain me in both trials and testimony? What is the evidence in my life that I believe this?

PRAYER:

Holy Spirit, thank You that I don’t have to walk out this life on my own. Fill me again with Your power—not just for my comfort, but for Your purpose. Give me boldness to speak of Jesus, strength to live like Him, and courage to follow wherever You lead. Empower me to be Your witness today.

ACTION STEP:

Identify one way you can boldly represent Jesus this week—whether by praying for someone, sharing your testimony, or simply loving sacrificially. Write it down and invite the Holy Spirit to give you the strength to follow through.