Scripture: Acts 3:1–10
Peter Heals a Lame Beggar
3 One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon. 2 Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. 3 When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. 4 Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” 5 So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them.
6 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.” 7 Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. 8 He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. 9 When all the people saw him walking and praising God, 10 they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.
Observation:
In today’s reading, a lame beggar was placed at the Beautiful Gate so he might beg for alms, but what he received instead of money was far better. “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. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God.” (Acts 3:6-8)
Application:
At times, we understand what seek in prayer, yet the answer may differ from our expectations. However, God knows our true needs. The beggar in today’s scripture received far more than he anticipated, and he expressed his joy through praise to God. We must always praise God for both our answered and our seemingly unanswered prayers trusting that God knows what is best for us.
Prayer:
Lord God, You alone possess the knowledge of all the plans You have prepared for us and we are deeply grateful that You always hold our eternal well-being in Your heart. Grant us ability to praise You in all circumstances that we encounter in life, and guide us to place our unwavering trust in You at all times. Amen.