Prayer Focus: For The Wesleyan Church to be empowered by the Spirit.
Scripture: Luke 24:45-49
“I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed
with power from on high.” (v. 49)
Early Friday morning, a message from one of our Wesleyan leaders caught my attention. He wrote, “Friends, I am tired of doing this on my own strength!” Those three words — my own strength — stood out. It was a moment of surrender, a realization that he had been trying to lead without relying on God.
During his personal time with the Lord, the Holy Spirit reminded him that he didn’t need to lead on his own strength. God’s power, available through the Holy Spirit, was there to strengthen and guide him.
This same truth was given to the disciples: “Stay in the city until you have been clothed with power” (v. 49). The promise of empowerment required waiting — remaining in place until they received what was needed to fulfill their mission. That power was essential to proclaim the message of Jesus’ love, death and resurrection.
Today, our church faces a similar calling. The Wesleyan Church needs leaders who are willing to surrender their own abilities and rely fully on the Spirit’s empowerment. As we approach the General Conference, we must recognize that if we want to be a movement that has a transforming presence in the world, we must stop striving in our own strength and allow God’s power to lead us.
Prayer Prompt: Father, today we pause. We surrender our strength and wait for yours. Clothe us with the power you promised. As we prepare for what’s ahead, lead us by your Spirit — not our plans. We’re listening. We’re ready. Amen.
Johanna Chacón Rugh
*This entry is part of the “EMPOWERED: 15th General Conference Prayer Initiative,” created to guide Wesleyans in 30 days of intentional prayer for The Wesleyan Church and its 2026 General Conference.
Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
