When we see what Jesus sees and hear what the Holy Spirit says, we will pause what we are doing and do something not done before.

Peter and John prayed for the crippled man to be healed and saw no change.  Being the disciples of Jesus they prayed for at least 3 1/2 years.  They heard his cry for money but were not able to help him since they quit their fishing job and had no income.  Their unanswered prayers and inability to be a blessing may have bothered them (Acts 3).

On this particular day they stopped before entering the temple to pray.  Something was stirring in them.  They had to press the pause button on prayer.  They had to pause and address this man’s need.  But why did they do this?  Did they have something to give?  Did they go back fishing and get a big catch?  Did they receive an inheritance or win a lottery?  No, they received something greater, the baptism of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2).

The transforming power of the Holy Spirit was at work in them.  Peter, who denied being a follower of Jesus to a servant girl, stood boldly before the crowd and declared that all who call on the name of the Lord will be saved. (Acts 2:21).  They started to listen to the Holy Spirit who reminded them of Jesus’ words (John 14:26).  Anyone who has faith in Jesus will do what he did and even greater things (John 14:12,13).

They started to see people with Jesus’ perspective.  They realized Jesus’ power and authority was in them.  Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you.  In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk” (Acts 3:6).  Peter and John had the power and authority Jesus gave them.

Lord, help me to press the pause button on my religious activities and deepen my relationship with You.  My prayer is that I will see and hear You the way You see and hear the Father.  I need to press the pause button on peoples’ opinions and fear of men, and give away what I have (You).

Previous blogs from Act 3:  Look At Me and Crippled Beggar’s Thanksgiving