By Andrew Williams
“Meanwhile, Peter traveled from place to place, and he came down to visit the believers in the town of Lydda. There he met a man named Aeneas, who had been paralyzed and bedridden for eight years. Peter said to him, ‘Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you! Get up, and roll up your sleeping mat!’ And he was healed instantly. Then the whole population of Lydda and Sharon saw Aeneas walking around, and they turned to the Lord.” Acts 9:32-35 (NLT)
Good morning fellow disciples.
This passage highlights Peter’s dedication to the ministry of spreading the Gospel and the power of Jesus Christ to transform lives. As Peter traveled to encourage and strengthen believers, he encountered Aeneas, a man paralyzed for eight years. Peter, relying not on his own strength but on the authority of Jesus, boldly declared, “Jesus Christ heals you!” The result was immediate—a miraculous healing that brought glory to God.
This story reminds us that miracles are not for personal recognition but to point people to Christ. Aeneas’s healing was not just about restoring his physical health; it became a testimony that led many in the surrounding regions to turn to the Lord. Peter’s unwavering faith and willingness to act in obedience to God’s leading demonstrate what it means to live as a disciple fully surrendered to Christ. He redirected the focus from himself to Jesus, making it clear that the power to heal and save comes from Christ alone.
Peter’s example empowers us to step out boldly in faith, trusting in the name and power of Jesus to bring healing and transformation. While God may not call us to perform physical healings in the same way Peter did, He still uses us to bring spiritual healing, encouragement, and hope to those who are hurting. This passage challenges us to redirect our focus from our own limitations to God’s unlimited power working through us. When we rely on Christ, He can use us to bring His light into even the darkest situations.
This week, ask God to show you someone in need of encouragement, healing, or hope. Reach out to them and, like Peter, point them to the power of Jesus. Whether it’s through prayer, a kind word, or an act of service, let your actions reflect Christ’s love and compassion. Redirect your focus from what you feel you can’t do to what God can do through you. Trust Him to work in the lives of others as you step out in faith and obedience.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for the example of Peter, who faithfully declared Your power and brought healing to Aeneas. I confess that at times I doubt what You can do through me, but today I choose to redirect my focus from my own weaknesses to Your strength. Use me as Your vessel to bring encouragement, hope, and healing to those in need. Help me to boldly proclaim Your name and trust in Your power to transform lives. I commit to being a disciple who points others to You in everything I do. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
