BREAK EVERY LIMITATION
1. The
beggar's helpers had a limited strategy.
They
faithfully carried the lame man to the temple gate every day because
they believed that was the best place to find compassionate people
who would give him money.
The helpers of the crippled beggar had a strategy: to take him to a place where there was a possibility of finding compassionate people.
Vs 2 And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms from those who entered the temple;
However, their plan was for him to remain at the entrance; they did not anticipate that he would receive help if he went inside. Their expectation ended at the Beautiful Gate.
2. The crippled beggar expected only financial assistance.
He expected only to receive financial aid from the worshippers.
Vs 3 “who, seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, asked for alms.”
Even when told to "look at us," he still expected a gift of money instead of a life-changing miracle.
Vs 4,5 “And fixing his eyes on him, with John, Peter said, "Look at us." So he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them.”
3. Peter
chose to give what he possessed.
Peter and John may have given the man money before. This
time, having no silver or gold, they released something greater—the
authority and power of Jesus Christ. Instead of giving temporary
relief, they ministered
lasting transformation. – they broke the boundaries they had set
for themselves.
Vs 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."”
5. The
miracle required a step of faith.
The
lame man had never walked before. Peter took him by the hand and
helped him stand. His healing was manifested as he attempted what he
had previously been unable to do.
Vs 7 “And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.”
Many people become so accustomed to their struggles that they begin to identify with them, saying, "my sickness," "my poverty," or "my problem." God wants us to identify with His promises rather than our limitations.
Lessons to Learn
1. Do not
stop at the entrance.
Go
beyond the entrance. Seek God's presence and discover what He has
prepared for you.
2. Refuse
to limit your expectations.
Do
not expect only temporary help (alms or donation). Believe God for
complete transformation.
3. Value
God's Word more than material possessions.
A
word from God, divine wisdom, or a God-given
idea can change your life
permanently and free you from dependence on others.
4. Use what
God has already placed in your hands.
Peter
lacked money, but he
possessed faith, spiritual
authority, and the name of Jesus. God can use what you already have
to bless others.
5. Act on
God's instruction.
Faith
requires action. Do not allow past failures or present limitations to
keep you from taking the next step.
6. Trust in
the power of the name of Jesus.
The
name of Jesus is powerful when spoken
in faith and accompanied by
obedient action.
As Peter helped the lame man stand, we should also encourage others
to take their own steps of faith.
Dr Lawi Mshana, +255712924234, Tanzania
