April 24, 2019
Acts 5:12-16 Contemporary English Version (CEV)
Would you describe yourself as an honest person? Scripture teaches we must be authentic and honest with God and others; the Word commands it. This authenticity is referred to as integrity and it is associated with the root word of shalom or peace. Integrity is the state of being whole or undivided. At the cross, Christ made peace with God in our behalf. As we allow God to make us whole, we begin to live in his integrity. He brings the proper shape to our character. Power is released to us as we mature spiritually. We cannot bear false witness—lie—and still walk in God’s power. Sometimes, we don’t have the power of God flowing through us because we are not operating in the integrity of Christ. Have you associated God’s power with the integrity of your words or actions?
During Jesus’ ministry, he performed many miracles and signs that pointed to God’s power living in him. Now, the Apostles are experiencing that same kind of power; the power to heal and deliver people from the bondage of darkness. Truthfully, people are somewhat afraid of meeting with the apostles, because they have heard about what happened to Ananias and Sapphira when they lied to Peter and God. Do you know what happened to this couple? They died as soon as the lie came across their lips (Acts 5:1-11).
On the other hand, Peter understands the power of lies, because he lied about knowing the Lord. He suffered greatly with his own verbal sin. But, because of the blood of Messiah, Peter experienced the forgiveness of God and a new beginning in his integrity. Peter is determined not to make the same mistakes and therefore he connects with the power of God to heal others. Peter, the teachable spirit, walks in integrity and power!
Acts 5:12-16 Peter’s Unusual Power
12 The apostles worked many miracles and wonders among the people. All of the Lord’s followers often met in the part of the temple known as Solomon’s Porch. 13 No one outside their group dared join them, even though everyone liked them very much.
14 Many men and women started having faith in the Lord. 15 Then sick people were brought out to the road and placed on cots and mats. It was hoped that Peter would walk by, and his shadow would fall on them and heal them. 16 A lot of people living in the towns near Jerusalem brought those who were sick or troubled by evil spirits, and they were all healed.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your shalom that teaches me about integrity and authenticity. Help me to honor your name with my words and actions. Holy Spirit, please convict me should I wander away from your wholeness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.