Faith in the Name

3-22-12

16 “Through faith in the name of Jesus, this man was healed—and you know how crippled he was before. Faith in Jesus’ name has healed him before your very eyes.

Acts 3:16 (NLT)

16 And his name—by faith in his name—has made this man strong whom you see and know, and the faith that is through Jesus has given the man this perfect health in the presence of you all.

Acts 3:16 (ESV)

When we walk through life as a Christian we often hear and see individuals who will tell us we have to have faith if we desire to see God work miracles in our own lives and those around us. This is true and many times we fail to grab hold of this idea and we find ourselves wondering if healing is possible. You know the word healing is not just about the physical body. It also applies to our relationships, finances and any other area in your life that brings you pain or sorrow. Do you see in this passage something that we often overlook? The man who was made well; he was not healed because of his own faith but because of Peter and John’s faith. They brought healing to this man not for their glory but to bring glory to Jesus. Sometimes I look at those who are working for God and wonder if they have forgotten who they serve and what God has done for them. Humility is something that seems to be dying in our churches today. It is alright to have pride in ones accomplishments but at what cost. Is it worth causing your brother to stumble; will you be willing to stand before God on the Day of Judgment and receive what you are owed. We must always remember where our strength and power really comes from.  As Christians we do nothing in our own power and our name will not ever save or heal someone. It requires we have faith in the name of Jesus and only in His name can people be made whole. Today who are you drawing your strength and power from? Is your hope found in what you can do or is it based on the faith you have in Jesus the only Son of God? I challenge you to be humble in your walk and allow Jesus to be who others see and experience in all that you do. I saw a T-shirt yesterday that I really liked; it said on the front; “Be like the moon”, on the back it said, “Reflect the Son” that is all we are really able to do. Live humbly, walk confidently and love passionately  as you walk in the light of God’s Word.