Working With God

Devotional Contributor: Gerard Ryan

Peter and John were on their way to the temple to pray. As they were walking, a man lame from birth asked them for alms. 

Acts 3:6-8 (NKJV)

“6 Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” 7 And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. 8 So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them—walking, leaping, and praising God.”

There are three things for you to see in this passage. First, Peter spoke a word of healing over the man using the authority given to him in the name (authority, power) of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. Secondly, Peter took the hand of the man and lifted him up. This was a bold and necessary corresponding action demonstrating no doubt this man was healed.  Thirdly, the man’s feet and ankle bones received strength after he was lifted up. This indicates the manifestation of the healing did not take place until after the corresponding action. 

Acts 3:16 (AMP)

“…it is the name of Jesus which has strengthened this man whom you see and know; and the faith which comes through Him has given him this perfect health and complete wholeness in your presence.”

This verse reveals the healing faith that healed this man was not Peter’s faith, but the faith that comes through Jesus Christ. 

With this in mind, let us realize that we, the children of God, have been given the privilege to work with God and to have His power work through us. Jesus Christ is the healer and we are the ministers of His healing works.

JOSHUA 1:9 (NKJV)

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”