“If we are being examined today concerning a good deed done to a crippled man, by what means this man has been healed, let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead by him this man is standing before you well. This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
Acts 4:9-12

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In today’s Scripture, Peter and John were brought before the council to explain themselves after they were seen healing a lame man. The council stood before them and asked, “By what power or by what name did you do this?” (Acts 4:7). Peter boldly declared, “By the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.”

Take note: Peter healed the man in Jesus’ name, not in his name. There is no other name that holds all power and all authority other than the name of Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:18). It is the power of the Holy Spirit that transforms, heals and makes new. Peter refused to receive any praise for what he knew only God could do; instead, he pointed everyone’s praise right to Jesus. He knew, and we should try to understand, that hard work, earnest prayers, or dedication don’t equal the power of God. 

Chris Tomlin once said, “The difference between a performer and a worship leader is that performers lead you to themselves, but worship leaders lead you to Jesus.” When I heard it, I was intrigued. The sentiment resonated deeply with me. There is nothing wrong with performers, but if you’re going to do things in the name of Jesus, your first and foremost priority is to give all glory to God and not yourself. It is critical that we always give Jesus the credit He is due (Psalm 29:2). 

When God uses you to bless others, people will misplace praise to you. This will happen, just never forget to point it right back to God. Understand that your gifts and talents were given to you by God to be used for God’s glory and to be a blessing to other people.

Lastly, Peter was filled with the Holy Spirit. He spoke boldly before the council about Jesus. Understand that Peter did not speak in his own strength. When you align with the Word of God, the Holy Spirit will fill you with courage to do His will and give you the tools and words you need to accomplish it. There is no need to try to be courageous and bold in your own strength. Surrender, and you will experience God’s power working in and through you.

Next Steps

The best way to align with the Word of God is to read the Bible. How are you doing with the reading plan this summer? It’s never too late to jump. If you’re finding it fitting well in your routine, consider memorizing a verse from what you read.