Healing at the Gate

Healing at the gate shows how God met a man’s deepest need at the temple entrance—and reminds us He can bring miracles into our lives too.

“A man lame from birth … asked to receive alms … Peter said, ‘I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!’”—Acts 3:2–6

The man had nothing … and a dismal future, at best. He spent most days simply begging from those who entered the temple. Their handouts provided his daily bread. Certainly, he believed in God, but he never seemed to consider that God cared enough or was powerful enough to set him free.

However, Peter knew that nothing is impossible with God. When he spoke the word of faith, the man who couldn’t walk was instantly healed. Filled with joy, he walked, jumped, and praised God. In one divine moment, his entire life was turned around.

Many people approach life like this man who couldn’t walk—feeling trapped in a hopeless existence, convinced that nothing will ever change. They feel sentenced to a life of sickness, poverty, failure, defeat, doubt, or depression. Even Christians can have this attitude. Though they know Bible stories like this one about the healing of the man with a disability, they still think like this man did before his healing—never imagining that God’s power can suddenly change their lives.

Today, you may face situations that seem hopeless. Remember that God can supply your needs. He can strengthen the weak, heal the crippled, and set the captives free.

Don’t be content with just the crumbs of life—God wants you to believe Him for big things. Just as He did for the man who couldn’t walk, He can turn your life around in a single moment.

Reflection Question: What area of your life needs God’s healing touch today?