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In the Name of Jesus

Acts 3:1-8.

Have you ever prayed in a prayer meeting and wondered to yourself what people thought of your prayer? - Why were their eyes still closed? Was it too short? Did it make sense? It didn't make sense... I can't even remember what I said. I must be terrible at this thing. (You can tell I've lived this, haha)

Acts 3 is the first miracle of healing in the Early Church, an event where a man who was lame from birth began to walk (v2,8)

I am often encouraged by the passage mainly because of the emphasis on the simplicity of the event (from the disciples' lense):
  • It happened to be that Peter and John had no money - an awkward situation. (v3,6)
  • It happened during their everyday life - at 3 pm on their way to (not from) prayer - it wasn't planned. (v1)
  • It seemed to me Peter's prayer was ... errmm ... too short (v6, In Jesus name, walk).
In an earlier chapter in Acts 2:17-21, Peter had shared how God's promise of the Holy Spirit is now fulfilled in us today, so that "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" (v21).

So, whether in an awkward situation, in our everyday life or we're lost for words, the Holy Spirit always helps us, so when we pray in Jesus name, God hears us. And He does because He (Our Father) loves us.

How might Peter's testimony today encourage you to pray?

God bless you exceedingly,

Sam.
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