Strong’s 1412 describes the divinely initiated process by which believers are made capable of accomplishing what human strength alone cannot achieve. Scripture never presents this power as an impersonal force; it is the personal working of the triune God, mediated through the risen Christ and applied by the Holy Spirit. Thus, any manifestation of spiritual vigor ultimately magnifies God’s “glorious might” rather than the believer’s innate ability.

Occurrences in the New Testament

1. Colossians 1:11 – Paul prays that the Colossians be “strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have full endurance and patience, and joyfully.” Here empowerment is linked to steadfastness and joy in the midst of adversity, underscoring that supernatural strength is primarily moral and spiritual in character.
2. Hebrews 11:34 – The faith-heroes “gained strength from weakness” and “became mighty in battle.” The verb portrays ordinary people transformed into instruments of extraordinary deliverance, reinforcing the pattern that God’s power is perfected in human weakness.

Divine Enablement and Sanctification

Empowerment in Colossians is embedded within a larger prayer (Colossians 1:9-14) that moves from knowledge of God’s will to fruitful obedience and finally to endurance. The progression shows that being strengthened is not an end in itself; it serves sanctification. Believers are enabled to persevere, displaying patience that reflects the character of Christ, who “endured the cross” (Hebrews 12:2).

Faith as the Conduit of Power

Hebrews 11 locates empowerment within the theology of faith. The same verb is used for Gideon, Barak, Samson, and David—figures whose exploits varied widely, yet each acted in reliance on God’s promises. Faith does not create power; it appropriates God’s already-available strength. This pattern guards against triumphalism, reminding the Church that spiritual victory flows from dependence, not presumption.

Christological Focus

All New Testament strengthening is Christ-centered. Paul attributes empowering grace to “His glorious might,” a phrase that echoes the exaltation of the resurrected Lord (Philippians 2:9-11). In practical terms, the believer’s union with Christ is the sphere in which divine power operates: “I can do all things through Him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13).

Ministry Implications

1. Pastoral Prayer – Leaders are to intercede for congregations as Paul did, asking not merely for relief from trials but for Spirit-given stamina within them.
2. Mission – Empowerment equips saints for witness amid hostility (Acts 1:8 illustrates the broader principle, though with a different verb).
3. Worship – Testimonies of God’s enabling power, whether ancient (Hebrews 11) or contemporary, call the assembly to praise, humility, and renewed trust.

Historical Resonance

Throughout church history, reformers, martyrs, and missionaries have cited Colossians 1:11 as their anchor. From Polycarp’s calm courage at the stake to modern believers enduring persecution, the same divine strengthening has sustained endurance and joy.

Practical Application for Believers Today

• Seek empowerment through prayer rooted in Scripture.
• Embrace weakness as the platform for God’s strength.
• Expect the Spirit’s enabling for both extraordinary challenges and ordinary faithfulness—parenting, workplace integrity, and service in the local congregation.
• Cultivate gratitude; empowerment is “according to His glorious might,” not personal merit.

Summary

Strong’s 1412 depicts an indispensable grace by which God fortifies His people for endurance, obedience, and witness. Appearing only twice in the New Testament yet echoing throughout redemptive history, the word captures the dynamic whereby frail humans become effective servants of an all-powerful Lord, showcasing His glory in both suffering and triumph.