Empowered by the Spirit

I know, in my mind, that the greatest commission we as believers have received from Christ is to go into the world that we live in and to bear witness to the name of Jesus for the purpose of God's glory. I know that. Yet, I can only feel pangs of guilt when I consider the devotion I have to this work--the most important work I could do. I will, when the guilt is too strong, justify my lack of obedience by claiming that other facets of my life are similar to bearing witness of the Gospel. I will say that my life is constantly a witness to Christ's glory, but I will be lying the whole time. I hesitate. I sometimes refuse. But often, I just simply feel like I don't have the power to fulfill this commission that Christ has called me into. It was interesting to read about Francis of Assisi and his abandonment to the Spirit's calling in his life. When his friend told him about the prophecy he heard from God as it pertained to St. Francis' calling, St. Francis was immediate in his obedience. He went into towns preaching the Gospel because he was empowered by the Spirit. I have that opportunity. I can be empowered by the Spirit. In fact, I believe that once the Spirit has equipped me, I will desire nothing but to fulfill the work he has before me. Echoing Watchman Nee, I know that once the Holy Spirit has been poured out on flesh, it" brings about a work of conviction of sin, repentance, and faith". To be effective in evangelism, the problem is not my efforts. My efforts are futile, provided they precede the power that can only come from the Holy Spirit. However, if God has called me to be obedience in evangelizing he has already equipped me sufficiently for that work. Their is now no excuse. God promises his Spirit of power. I must be diligent and faithful to heed his call and allow its effects to sweep over me immediately.