Friday, 14 May 2021
“Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, ‘Look at us!’. So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. Then Peter said, ‘Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.’ Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong.” – Acts 3:4-7 NIV
The above portion of scripture symbolizes some of the important principles of Christianity. These are the principles that we are meant to apply in our walk and to also teach them to others so that they too may one day pass them on. In verse four Peter instructed the lame man to look at him. This symbolizes the importance of encouraging people to look unto GOD for their breakthrough. They can’t receive what they are expecting if their focus isn’t on Christ. John 15:5 touches on this point that you need to remain in Christ as this is where your breakthrough is hidden. He alone should be your focus. Most people are looking for miracles and breakthroughs everywhere else but in Christ. It’s not a passive relationship, you have to be engaged to reap the rewards. Your focus should only be on the one who has the power to transform you, not man.
In verse six we see Peter telling the man that he can’t give him what he wants, but he’ll give him what he needs. He gave him the freedom that comes in the name of Jesus. Once people are in GOD we are meant to only give them Christ and not make them dependent on us. We are meant to show them how to walk in this journey with the Lord, this is where their liberty is. We are to conduct ourselves in a manner that is in keeping with Christ’s teaching. Paul told his followers to mimic him as he mimics Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1). This is the only gift we can give them, Christ. As we have freely received him, we must freely give him to others. When they see us navigate our journey with integrity and honor, they too will inevitably do likewise.
In verse seven we see Peter helping the man to his feet. Even though the man had already received his healing he still needed help getting up. He needed someone to help him until his feet became stable. This highlights the importance of discipleship. Walking alongside fellow brethren while they are still learning how to navigate this walk. The paralytic man (Mark 2:1-5) knew that his healing is in Christ but he couldn’t take himself there, this is where his friends filled in the gap. The paralytic man at Bethesda knew where his healing could come from but he had no one to help him get into the pool. Besides always offering words of encouragement and prayer, we also ought to avail ourselves in person to assist where we can. We show love not only in word but also in deed. This then proves that we are GOD’s children because we give away what we have also received, love. We are then our brother’s keeper.
We show love not only in word but also in deed. This then proves that we are GOD’s children because we give away what we have also received, love.
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