Empowered for His Purpose: Experiencing the Fullness of the Holy Spirit
“We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey Him.” — Acts 5:32
In today’s devotional reflection by A.B. Simpson, we are reminded of a powerful truth: the fullness of the Holy Spirit isn’t given merely for our personal spiritual experience. Instead, it’s entrusted to us for a greater purpose—carrying out Christ’s mission to a lost and broken world.
The Purpose of the Spirit’s Power
Simpson emphasizes that one reason the Holy Spirit’s work can seem limited in the lives of believers is a lack of engagement with the mission of evangelizing the lost. While many Christians long for a deeper experience of God’s presence, they may not realize that the Spirit’s power is tied to obedience—specifically, obedience to Christ’s command to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).
God’s Spirit flows where His mission is embraced. When we align our hearts with His desire for souls to know Him, the Holy Spirit works through us to accomplish eternal purposes. As Acts 1:8 declares:
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
This promise makes it clear: the Holy Spirit empowers us to witness. His power is not for our selfish enjoyment but for serving others and advancing the Gospel.
The Obedience Connection
Acts 5:32 highlights an important condition: God gives His Spirit to those who obey Him. Obedience opens the door to greater measures of His power in our lives. If we find ourselves longing for a deeper relationship with the Spirit, perhaps the question isn’t “What can I do to feel closer to God?” but “Am I walking in obedience to His purposes?”
Simpson reminds us that the Church will only experience the fullness of Pentecost when believers awaken to the call to evangelize. This doesn’t mean everyone is called to move to foreign lands, but each of us has a role in sharing Christ’s love and truth—whether that’s with a neighbor, a co-worker, or someone across the world.
A Practical Example
Consider James, a software developer who often worked late into the night coding for his team. Though a dedicated believer, he felt his relationship with God had plateaued. One day, James noticed a younger coworker, Alex, struggling with both work tasks and personal issues. Prompted by the Spirit, James decided to invite Alex for coffee after work one evening.
Over those conversations, James began to share his faith naturally, demonstrating Christ’s love through kindness, patience, and practical wisdom. As Alex opened up, James felt the Holy Spirit guiding his words and actions, giving him insights and courage he hadn’t experienced before. Through these interactions, Alex eventually started asking deeper questions about faith, and James had the opportunity to introduce him to Jesus.
James found that as he stepped into obedience by being a witness, his own spiritual life deepened. The Spirit empowered him not only for that one relationship but in ways that enriched his everyday walk with Christ.
How Do We Respond?
If we desire the fullness of the Holy Spirit, we must align our lives with His mission. This doesn’t mean striving in our own strength but humbly asking God to show us how to step into His purposes.
Pray for a heart aligned with God’s mission. Ask Him to give you a burden for the lost and the courage to act on it.
Look for opportunities to witness. Whether it’s a kind word, a simple act of service, or a Gospel conversation, God can use your obedience to make an eternal impact.
Trust the Spirit to equip you. You don’t need to have all the answers or the perfect words. The Holy Spirit will give you what you need as you obey.
A Prayer for Obedience and Power
Father, thank You for the gift of Your Spirit. I confess to You the times I’ve sought Your power for my own benefit rather than Your purposes. Align my heart with Your mission to reach the lost. Open my eyes to opportunities to share Your love and truth. As I obey, I trust You to empower me with Your Spirit. May my life be a vessel for Your glory and the advance of Your kingdom. Amen.
Let us remember: the Spirit’s power is not for our comfort but for His kingdom. As we walk in obedience, we experience the fullness of His presence and the joy of being part of His redemptive work in the world. Let’s embrace this sacred trust and step into His purposes today!