Begin with 2 minutes of silence and stillness before God.

In Acts chapter 3, we read about a miraculous healing that took place at the temple gate called Beautiful. Peter and John encountered a man who had been crippled from birth, whose only way of surviving was to beg for money. Peter, however, following in the example of Jesus, used a physical impossibility to highlight the unstoppable power of God.

"Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." The Bible says that immediately the man's feet and ankles became strong, and he jumped up and began to walk and praise God. Imagine seeing legs that had atrophied from a lifetime of being crippled suddenly take form, grow muscles, and stiffen up.

It’s not surprising that the crowds who witnessed this miracle were amazed and filled with wonder. How could they not be? Peter again, following in the example of Jesus, used this physical need to address a greater spiritual need. Peter didn’t use the attention of the crowd to start his own ministry campaign. Surely pride tempted him. Instead, he pointed to the hope and salvation of Jesus alone.

What strikes me about this story, beyond the miracle itself, is the boldness of Peter and John. They were not afraid to speak the truth, even when it was unpopular or could lead to persecution. Remember, the crucifixion of Jesus was just days ago. They could have been next, but they were not concerned about their own safety or reputation. The hope of the gospel was stronger than any fear or anxiety.

You and I may not encounter the same types of miracles that Peter and John did, but regardless we are called to share the same message of hope and salvation. We may not be asked to heal the sick or raise the dead, but we can share the good news of Jesus Christ with those around us.

Like Peter and John, we must be bold and courageous in sharing our faith. We must not be afraid of what others may think or say. Instead, we must trust in the power of the Holy Spirit to do the work of changing hearts that we could never do.

Take 2 minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflections:

• Pray for opportunities to share your story of faith with someone this week.

Family Devos: Acts 3

By: Carrie Hobson

Remember those signs and wonders the disciples were doing in our reading yesterday? Well, today we get to read about one of those! Peter and John were going up to the temple to pray. There was a lame man who was carried to the temple gates every day so he could ask those who went into the temple for food and money. He asked Peter and John for money, but Peter stopped and told him he didn’t have any to give. Instead, he instructed him to get up and walk in the name of Jesus. He helped him up and immediately the man was healed! He was so excited! Scripture tells us that he was leaping and praising God in the temple. The people who saw him were “filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him”. Peter reminded the people that he hadn’t healed the man by his own power. His faith in Jesus and the power of His name had healed the man.

When God performs a miracle in your life, how does that make you feel? Do you just expect it without any gratitude? We know only God, through our faith in Him, can perform signs and wonders. Wouldn’t it be amazing if we were as excited at the works of Jesus as the lame man was when he was healed? The lame man’s joy was a testimony to the power of God. Let’s give Him all the praise He deserves so we can show others who Jesus is.

• Pray: God, I thank You for the signs and wonders You perform! Let us never forget that You are powerful and amazing!