January 5, 2012

Acts 3 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Matthew 3:1-12, Psalm 5, Genesis 9-10

Journal Entry

Scripture

Acts 3:4-6 And Peter directed his gaze at him, as did John, and said, “Look at us.” 5 And he fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something from them. 6 But Peter said, “I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!”

Observation

Peter and John were experiencing God's signs and wonders. Something drew their attention to this particular lame person. Perhaps it was the Holy Spirit's specific instruction or simply acting intuitively as they were led by the Spirit. They stopped, directed their gaze, drew his attention and spoke authoritatively. There was no "ands, ifs or buts" about what Peter said. It was a simple declaration.

The result was instantaneous. A miracle occured which no one could deny. People were filled with awe and amazement and were led by Peter to repentance and acceptance of Christ.
God clearly used this miracle to expand his kingdom.

Application

How did Peter and John know that God wanted to heal this lame man and how can I likewsie know God's will?

My answer is that I don't know. Nonetheless, there are times when God has manifested the power of his Spirit in and around me. When Jesus' disciples asked about healing, he once said that it is through fasting and prayer. What I do know is that as we seek God, He will be found. If we ask for his Holy Spirit, He will grant it. I may not specifically know God's will but I can still obey as I am led. Perhaps my goal is not necessarily to know God's will but to draw closer to God and allow God's will to be done through my life.

It was the power of Jesus Christ, not Peter or John, that healed the lame man. Peter, John and other apostles led people to learn God's word, fellowship with other believers and to prayer. I trust that as I devote myself to God's word, fellowship with other believers and pray, God will manifest his will in and around my life.

Prayer

Father, I am prone to measuring myself against others. I can think that I am more righteous than sinners and inadequate compared to other Christians. I hear You telling me today that You love me just the way I am. It is not by the relative measure of me against other people, but the complete grace you have given me through your Son. You want me to draw closer to you, love you and love others. Thank you that you give your Holy Spirit to us. Whether through overt or subtle ways, I know that Your Spirit will be at work in me. Help me to be faithful to prayer, reading of scripture and fellowshipping with others.

--Jason Kim