SCRIPTURE: Acts (NIV) 9:32 As Peter travelled about the country, he went to visit the saints in Lydda. 33 There he found a man named Aeneas, a paralytic who had been bedridden for eight years. 34 “Aeneas,” Peter said to him, “Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and tidy up your mat.” Immediately Aeneas got up. 35 All those who lived in Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord.
Acts (NIV) 9:41 He took [Dorcas] by the hand and helped her to her feet. Then he called the believers and the widows and presented her to them alive. 42 This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord.
OBSERVATION: This chapter begins with the conversion of a great persecutor of the Jesus followers—Saul. He became the Apostle Paul, the greatest supporter and spreader of the church.
The chapter ends with two miracles by the Apostle Peter. The healing of Aeneas, and the raising from the dead of Tabitha. These two miracles became keys for many people to become believers in Jesus.
APPLICATION: Today we see God working in similar ways. When God heals someone, it becomes proof that God is present and is more than a bystander. He is involved with everyday life. He is active!
Of course, the greatest proof of God’s presence is a changed life—changed attitudes, changed thinking, changed priorities, more love, new joy, etc. Living with God sharing our life, changes are inevitable. But healings demonstrate God’s concern for people as well as become testimonies that others can see.
PRAYER: Holy Spirit, fill me and each SOAP reader with fire and with faith. Use us to minister in Jesus name to the hurting world around us. May our lives and your action and ministry through us bring many to Jesus! Amen
Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!
On Facebook: Today’s SOAP from Pastor Leon
Also on: soapsbyleon.wordpress.com
SOAPs by Pastor Leon 