Begin with two minutes of stillness and silence before God.

Throughout life, maybe even in our daily routines, we often encounter people in need. Our response to those around us in need is a direct reflection of our walk with the Lord. Sometimes we must ask ourselves, are we boldly living out our faith by meeting the needs of others, or are we giving in to the temptation to look the other way?

In Acts 3, Peter and John are faced with this exact scenario. A man who was lame from birth sits at the temple gate, begging for money. It would’ve been easy to walk past him or to just toss him a few coins, but instead, Peter offers him something far greater. He offers him Jesus. Peter heals the man in the name of Jesus (Acts 3:6). It changes the man’s entire life just like Jesus changes our life when He enters it. The passage tells us that the miracle draws a crowd, and Peter seizes the opportunity to tell the people about the real source of healing. He tells them about Jesus. I love that Peter never misses an opportunity!

In Acts 4, the religious leaders are furious. Peter and John are arrested and questioned. Yet, even in the face of opposition, Peter boldly declares, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

Acts 3 and 4 provide a powerful glimpse into the early church’s courage and clarity proclaiming the name of Jesus. These chapters highlight both the miraculous power of God and the unwavering boldness of believers in the face of opposition. What gave these ordinary men such boldness? Scripture says, “When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men... they were astonished, and they took note that these men had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13). The key to their courage wasn’t education or status. It was time spent with Jesus. We must spend time daily with Jesus in prayer and reading our Bibles.

This passage reminds us that God works through those who are willing to step out in faith. It also challenges us today. Whether it’s reaching out to someone in need or sharing the gospel in the face of resistance, we are called to be bold witnesses. Are we willing to speak the name of Jesus, even when it’s unpopular? Do we trust that God can use us – unschooled and ordinary people – to do extraordinary things when we are close to Him? Are we spending time with Him daily?

Let us spend time with Jesus, be filled with the Holy Spirit, and ask for the boldness to proclaim His name wherever we go! The world may resist, but the name of Jesus remains powerful, healing, and life-giving.

Take two minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflection:

• Use the S.O.A.P. Method to study God’s Word.
  
• SCRIPTURE: What stands out to you in today’s passage?
  
• OBSERVATION: What is this text saying? What is the context? How does it fit with the verses before and after it? Are there any commands, instructions, or promises? 
  
• APPLICATION: How can you apply this verse to your life? What does this mean today? What is God saying to you? 
  
• PRAYER: Respond to the passage in prayer. Ask God to help you apply this truth to your life and spend some time listening to what He may be telling you.