23/05/2026
Empowered to Witness
Bible Reading
Acts 1:8 (NIV)
“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.”
Before Jesus ascended into heaven, He did not leave His followers empty-handed. He promised them power, not political power, not worldly influence, but the power of the Holy Spirit. Ordinary men and women would become bold witnesses for Christ.
That same promise still speaks today.
Many believers feel weak, overlooked, or uncertain about what difference they can make in a world that seems increasingly hostile to faith. Yet Jesus never said we must rely on our own strength. The Christian life was never meant to be lived by human effort alone. God gives His Spirit to strengthen, guide, comfort, and empower His people.
The disciples were fearful before Pentecost. After the Holy Spirit came upon them, they preached boldly, loved deeply, endured hardship, and carried the Gospel across nations. The power of God changed them from frightened followers into courageous witnesses.
Notice also the pattern Jesus gives: Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth.
Witness begins close to home. It starts in our “Jerusalem”, our family, workplace, neighbourhood, and community. Then it reaches beyond comfort zones into “Samaria”, places and people we may naturally avoid or struggle to understand. Finally, the Gospel stretches outward to the world.
You do not need a stage or a microphone to be a witness for Christ. A kind word, a faithful life, a prayer for someone hurting, standing for truth with grace, refusing bitterness, showing compassion, these all testify that Jesus is alive.
The Holy Spirit still empowers believers today. He still gives courage to the weary, wisdom to the uncertain, and strength to those who feel they have little left to give.
God does not call perfect people. He empowers willing people.
Prayer
Lord Jesus,
Thank You for the promise of the Holy Spirit. Fill me afresh with Your power and help me to live boldly for You. Let my life point others toward Christ in my words, actions, and attitude. Give me courage where I feel afraid, wisdom where I feel uncertain, and love for the people around me. Help me to be faithful in my own Jerusalem and willing to go wherever You lead.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
*****
“Power to Witness”
Holy Spirit, fall on us
Fill our hearts with holy fire
Jesus, You have called Your people
To lift Your name higher and higher
When fear surrounds and shadows fall
When we feel weak and standing small
You breathe Your strength into our soul
Your living power makes us whole
You called the fishermen and poor
Opened wide salvation’s door
Now through every tribe and tongue
Your mighty work is still being done
Not by might
Not by power
But by Your Spirit, Lord
Power to witness
Strength from above
Sent with mercy
Carried by love
From our homes to all the nations
We will shine Your holy light
Filled with the fire of heaven
Jesus, be glorified
In our streets and in our homes
To the broken and alone
Help us speak with truth and grace
Let the world behold Your face
Where there’s hatred, let love rise
Where there’s darkness, open eyes
May Your church stand bold and true
Always pointing back to You
Not by might
Not by power
But by Your Spirit, Lord
Power to witness
Strength from above
Sent with mercy
Carried by love
From our homes to all the nations
We will shine Your holy light
Filled with the fire of heaven
Jesus, be glorified
Jerusalem, Judea
Samaria, the world
Every nation, every heartbeat
Let Your banner be unfurled
Holy Spirit move among us
Set our hearts completely free
Till the ends of all the earth cry
Jesus Christ is King indeed
Power to witness
Strength from above
Sent with mercy
Carried by love
Till the whole earth sings Your praises
Till every soul knows Your name
Filled with the fire of heaven
Forever You will reign
Holy Spirit, fall on us
Lead us now in truth and grace
We will go where You have called us
For the glory of Your name