AND THE LORD EMPOWERED ME

Title: AND THE LORD EMPOWERED ME

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Acts 1:8
Supporting Texts: Isaiah 40:29, Philippians 4:13, 2 Timothy 1:7, Zechariah 4:6

INTRODUCTION:
Empowerment is a divine enablement to achieve and fulfill God’s purpose in our lives. The Lord's empowerment comes with strength, boldness, and the ability to overcome obstacles. This sermon explores how God empowers His people for service, for their personal challenges, and to fulfill their divine destinies.

1. THE SOURCE OF EMPOWERMENT

a) Divine Origin
True empowerment comes from God, who gives us strength and capacity (Isaiah 40:29).

b) The Holy Spirit's Role
The Holy Spirit empowers us for witness and service (Acts 1:8).

c) God’s Promises
God's promises of empowerment are abundant throughout Scripture (Philippians 4:13).

d) Dependence on God
Our empowerment is contingent upon our reliance on God’s strength, not our own (Zechariah 4:6).

Biblical Example: Samson – Empowered by the Spirit of the Lord to perform extraordinary feats (Judges 14:6).

2. THE PURPOSE OF EMPOWERMENT

a) For Ministry and Service
God empowers us to serve others and build His kingdom (Ephesians 4:12).

b) To Overcome Challenges
His empowerment helps us face and conquer our difficulties (Philippians 4:13).

c) To Be Witnesses
We are empowered to testify of God's goodness and salvation (Acts 1:8).

d) To Live Victorious Lives
Empowerment leads us to triumph over sin and temptation (Romans 8:37).

Biblical Example: David – Empowered to defeat Goliath and lead Israel (1 Samuel 17:45-47).

3. THE PROCESS OF RECEIVING EMPOWERMENT

a) Seeking God
We must desire and seek God earnestly for empowerment (Matthew 7:7).

b) Prayer and Fasting
Engaging in prayer and fasting opens us to divine empowerment (Acts 13:2-3).

c) Studying the Word
God’s Word equips and empowers us for our journey (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

d) Walking in Faith
Acting on God’s promises activates His empowerment in our lives (James 2:17).

Biblical Example: The Early Church – Empowered through prayer and waiting for the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-4).

4. THE RESULTS OF DIVINE EMPOWERMENT

a) Boldness in Action
Empowerment leads to a spirit of boldness and courage (2 Timothy 1:7).

b) Strength in Weakness
God’s power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

c) Increased Fruitfulness
Empowerment results in spiritual fruitfulness in our lives (Galatians 5:22-23).

d) Ability to Impact Others
Empowered individuals impact their communities and nations for Christ (Matthew 5:14-16).

Biblical Example: Peter – Empowered at Pentecost, he boldly preached and thousands were saved (Acts 2:41).

5. MAINTAINING EMPOWERMENT

a) Continuous Connection to God
Staying close to God through prayer and worship maintains our empowerment (John 15:5).

b) Regularly Refreshing the Spirit
Asking God to refill us with His Spirit regularly is crucial (Ephesians 5:18).

c) Living in Obedience
Obedience to God’s Word sustains His empowerment in our lives (John 14:15).

d) Encouraging One Another
Fellowship with other believers helps us to remain empowered (Hebrews 10:24-25).

Biblical Example: Paul – Continuously empowered and strengthened for his ministry (2 Corinthians 4:7-9).

CONCLUSION:
"And the Lord empowered me" is a declaration that reminds us of God’s promise to strengthen and equip us for our assignments. As we acknowledge His empowerment in our lives, we can walk confidently in our purpose, overcoming obstacles and impacting the world for Christ.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Thank You, Lord, for empowering me with Your Spirit.

2. Help me to rely on Your strength and not my own.

3. I declare boldness in my actions as I serve You.

4. Fill me with Your Spirit for the tasks ahead.

5. Strengthen me in my areas of weakness.

6. Help me to be a witness for You in my community.

7. Guide me as I seek to understand Your Word.

8. I ask for a fresh outpouring of Your Spirit in my life.

9. Empower me to live a victorious life.

10. Let my life be a testament to Your power and goodness.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. The Lord is empowering you for greater works in His kingdom.

2. You will operate in boldness and strength from today.

3. God is filling you with His Spirit for your divine purpose.

4. Every challenge you face will be met with God’s empowerment.

5. You are being strengthened in your inner being today.

6. The Lord is renewing your strength like the eagle's.

7. You will impact your community and bring many to Christ.

8. God’s power is evident in your life as you step out in faith.

9. You will experience victory over every obstacle ahead.

10. Your testimony will inspire others to seek the empowering presence of God.