Daily devotional · August 23
Silver and Gold Not Needed
“One afternoon Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. And 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 entering the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. Peter looked directly at him, as did John. “Look at us!” said Peter. So the man gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. But Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk! ” Taking him by the right hand, Peter helped him up, and at once the man’s feet and ankles were made strong. He sprang to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and leaping and praising God.”
Peter and John are on their way to pray when a man who cannot walk asks for money. Peter looks straight at him and says something honest: I have no silver or gold, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus, stand up and walk. The story is easy to read as a miracle only apostles could do, yet notice how it begins with attention. Peter stops, looks the man in the eye, and takes his hand. Most of us walk past someone in need, convinced we have nothing to offer. Read Acts 3:6 and ask what you do have: time, a listening ear, a skill, a prayer, or a meal. Jesus' power works through ordinary people who stop. Today, when you meet someone in need, do not hurry by. Look at them, greet them warmly, and offer whatever help you can genuinely give.
Also read
“But Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk! ””
Acts 3:6
Prayer
Lord Jesus, open my eyes to those in need. Use what little I have to bring your love and lift someone up.