“A witness for Jesus can strive in their own strength or thrive in the Spirit’s strength.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – October 19, 2026
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… They all joined together constantly in prayer. Acts 1:8, 14
Just before His ascension to heaven, Jesus gave His followers specific instructions. He first addressed their need for inner power from the Holy Spirit, who would empower them with character and courage: character to validate their message and courage to face hostile environments. Begin at home, He said. Those who know you best vouch for your authenticity. Then, in concentric circles, move toward the rest of the world. Who you are is your greatest asset. Some people are drawn to your character like a magnet; others are repelled. Either way, over time, you shine as a light in a lost world. Start at home, then go worldwide!
Jesus’ final words emphasized the Spirit’s power, not human power. Human power builds kingdoms on earth, whereas the Spirit’s power builds God’s kingdom in surrendered hearts. The Lord will return to establish His kingdom on earth. In the meantime, we are to be His Spirit-filled witnesses. A witness for Jesus can strive in their own strength or thrive in the Spirit’s strength. So how do we become witnesses empowered by the Holy Spirit? Prayer precedes power. By faith, we confess and repent of sin and embrace our heavenly Father’s love and forgiveness. The Holy Spirit fills our hearts once we have emptied ourselves of dependence on our gifts, abilities, and experiences.
“After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly” (Acts 4:31).
Witnessing is a supernatural exchange with the Trinity: the Father lovingly draws the lost to Himself, the Spirit convicts hearts of sin, and the Son freely forgives souls in salvation. Our part is surrender and submission; the Holy Spirit’s part is fullness and power. Yes, it is necessary to both live and speak the gospel, for faith comes by hearing God’s spoken word. Look for ways in your church to champion evangelistic training and teaching. Perhaps you enroll in an apologetics class to be prepared to equip others. Just be careful not to substitute superior arguments for the Holy Spirit’s power. Most of all, pray moment by moment for opportunities to speak boldly about the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As a Spirit-empowered witness of Christ, you can’t help but help others understand the good news of Jesus!
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, fill me with Your Spirit so I can be a bold witness for Jesus, in His name I pray, amen.
Application
Who in my household, workplace, or neighborhood is the Holy Spirit prompting me to pray for and talk with about Jesus?
Related Reading
Luke 1:35, 3:16; Acts 2:1-4, 8:14-17; Romans 10:17, 15:13; 1 Thessalonians 1:5
Worship Resource
Jamie MacDonald: Rest On Us
Donate
If you are blessed by these daily devotionals please prayerfully consider a donation to support Wisdom Hunters Resources. We are trusting the Lord for His provision.
Download our app!
