What can we give that does not cost money? – 4 February 2021
By Benescke Janse van Rensburg
Bible text(s)
Acts 3
Matthew 5
True Happiness
Salt and Light
What can we give to someone in need around us if we ourselves have great needs?
On their way to the temple, Peter and John walked past a paralyzed beggar. The man, paralyzed from birth, sat at the same place daily begging to survive. When the disciples passed by, they stopped.
Instead of ignoring the man who asked them for money, Peter looked him in the eye with the words in Acts 3: 6: “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” The man’s feet and ankles immediately became strong. Peter pulled him up and he was able to walk. The man went into the temple with Peter and John and continued to magnify God’s Name.
2021 is a difficult year for many of us. The needs are high. Some need groceries. Another job opportunity. And yet others yearn for hope to overcome the depression and anxiety about the future. In Matthew 5:13-16 Jesus gives advice about our role as believers: “You are the salt of the earth … You are the light of the world … let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
What can we give that does not cost money? We can share hope and build faith by reminding ourselves and others of God’s promises and the fact that He is still in control of our lives. And we can create opportunities to experience God’s power and goodness by praying a prayer of faith.
Let us learn from Peter and John and become the salt and light that Jesus commanded us to be. One prayer in faith can change a life – not because we are so wonderful, but because faith moves the hand of the One that still does miracles. God bless.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for all that You have given me. Please help me to shine Your light in the lives of others. I ask this in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen
