Empowered by the Holy Spirit

January 14th, 2026

Acts 1:1-8.

A typhoon struck the Philippines directly over our Nazarene seminary. That whole part of the megaplex area lost power. In the past, however, someone had installed an exceptionally powerful generator that could serve the whole campus.

We became a saving center for the businesses, residences, and especially for the homeless in that area. A magnificent ministry came about because we had power from within that was not dependent on outside sources.

In community development, empowerment refers to giving people education, opportunities, and supplies needed to succeed. In the Bible, the empowerment we have comes from the indwelling and filling of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

He empowers us by training us, encouraging us, and resourcing us. He is called our Teacher, our Guide, our Strengthener, and our Counselor. He is also the one who purifies us, equips us, and is our Comforter (Paraclete—one who comes alongside).

Jesus promised power when the Holy Spirit would come on us. Ask for it. Luke 11:13 says, “If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”

Author: Clark Armstrong