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 – Acts 1:8.

 Advocacy groups play a crucial role in addressing political, economic, social, and other issues to empower people and communities. They work to create better conditions and environments for specific groups of people whom we perceive as abused. For instance, women and children advocacy groups identify abuse in the living conditions of these groups and engage in constructive dialogues with governments and civil society for change. Their efforts are commendable and inspiring. However, the question that arises is how we reached this point.

We cannot discount that the total depravity of man is the root cause of all human abuses. This failure has its roots in the denial of creation versus evolution. Can anyone deny the truth of God? Therefore, if we want to restore our natural freedoms, abilities, and dignity, we have to refer to the Creator of all things — God Almighty.

God is aware of the failures, inabilities, indignities, and cruelties that plague our lives. He understands that these are all consequences of sin that need His power to overcome. His solution was to address the sin that had enslaved humankind and instilled fear since the time of Adam (Heb. 2:14-15). Human efforts over the years have fallen short and will never succeed.

Musicians and poets have sung and written about love as the ultimate answer. However, they realize that human love is often hollow, self-serving, conditional, and ultimately disappointing. True love is God Himself, and He has revealed Himself to us through His Son, Jesus Christ. However, pride often prevents us from surrendering to Him and turning in humility to Him. Yet, God’s love for the world remains unwavering, and He has provided the very empowerment that humanity seeks.

In Romans chapter eight, God declares our freedom from the power and enslavement to sin and death (Rom. 8:2). To live in this deliverance from fear, God has given us His Spirit—the Spirit of sonship by whom we cry Abba, Father (15). Paul reminds us in 2 Tim. 1:7 that God has given us a spirit, not one of timidity, but the Spirit of power, love, and self-discipline—the Spirit of the Christian life and witness. This power is what Jesus promised His disciples before His ascension (Acts 1:8)—the Holy Spirit who came in all His glory and might on the Day of Pentecost (2:1-4).

The coming of the Holy Spirit is the empowerment we need to rise above the abusive and inhuman conditions we live in! It is only possible by entrusting your life to Jesus and living for Him. Then, you can experience the freedom the Holy Spirit brings, allowing you to live joyfully in the Lord always.

Pray with Me

Breathe on us, Lord Holy Spirit. Fill us every day and empower us to live above the world and help lift others up to live to experience your love in Christ Jesus, amen.