When Simon saw that the spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money and said, “Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” Peter answered: “May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord in the hope that he may forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin.” Acts 8:18-23

When I read this passage I feel guilty. How many times have I found it easier to hand over money to ‘help out’ rather than give of my time and prayers. There are times that I have wanted to take a short cut or the easy way out through thinking “Oh, nobody will know the difference,” or “I’ll just skip this one time,” or “I think I’ve done more than my fair share.” The stories in this chapter remind us that it was the unselfish acts, the hardships, and the sacrifice of those first believers that brought us our church. I want to remember that I am part of the fellowship of God, and even though sometimes it requires more than I think I can give, I always have Him at my side.

Prayer

Dear Lord, I know You forgive us when we fall short of what we should be doing in living our daily faith. Please help us remember that our faith should be the “means to the end”.