Acts 3:1-26 It was about three in the afternoon when Peter and John encountered a lame man begging at the Gate Beautiful as they entered the temple courtyard. Peter looked into the man’s eyes and said, “Silver and gold I do not have but what I do have I give to you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk” (v. 6).
Peter then took the right hand of the man and pulled him up. Instantly strength came into his ankles and feet, and he entered the temple with them walking, leaping and praising God.
Peter gave all he had to give, and it was more than enough. He had the name of Jesus and the ability through the Holy Spirit to deliver and heal people. We have the same to give to others.
The name of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit are much more precious than silver or gold. We cannot take silver or gold with us to heaven, but we can take two very precious treasures to heaven with us—people with whom we have shared Jesus on earth and the Word of God we have hidden in our hearts. Peter delivered to this lame man the words of life that are eternal. Every day we have that same opportunity through phone calls, personal conversations, letters, writings and now even e-mail and chat rooms. Proverbs 25:11 says, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”
When I read this proverb I visualize a beautiful painting of golden apples framed in silver, and the title is WORDS OF LIFE. Peter said, “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” There are many spiritual cripples on this earth who need the words of life you have within you to deliver. Be on the lookout today for such people, and let your words be led, anointed and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Lord, thank You for the words of life that are hidden in my heart. I know I can take them to heaven with me, but I want somehow to dispense some of these words to others today. Help me to do this if someone calls me on the phone or perhaps You have someone I need to call. Help me to share Your words through my writings and letters. The world is full of words that bring death and discouragement to people. Help my conversations today be seasoned with grace and my words to be life giving and life changing. Amen.
READ: 2 Samuel 23:24-24:25; Acts 3:1-26; Psalm 123:1-4; Proverbs 16:21-23
