Within our mouths lies a powerful tool. A tool with the power to bless, curse, wound, heal, pardon or condemn. Though many would rather use it as a weapon, us Christ followers must use our tongues as a faith activator. A tool for igniting faith in the lives of those who have yet to believe.

In Acts 3 (please read first), Peter and John show us an excellent example of how words that activate faith can make  a world of difference in a persons life. In verse 2 we see that a crippled man was begging people for money in front of a temple. When Peter and John approached the crippled man, Peter spoke words that the man was not expecting:

“Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Acts 3:6 (NIV)

The crippled man was expecting a donation, but what he received was much better! I’m sure money wouldn’t have helped the crippled man’s condition, perhaps it would have given comfort, but only for a moment.

Giving something material, many times may be easier than activating faith with your words or actions. Its the idea of introducing someone to the giver instead of the gifts that can change a life.

However, it doesn’t end with words but with action. Later in the chapter we see that after Peter spoke to the crippled man, he took an action:

“Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong.” Acts 3:7 (NIV)

The crippled man might have been thinking that Peter was crazy, until Peter started to help him up. The man must have started to think differently at that time. Perhaps his thoughts were “Could it be? Maybe today is the day I receive a miracle! Yes, it must be!”. When he did get up, he was instantly healed. His faith had been activated!

Peter’s faith in Jesus must have rubbed off on the crippled man through his words. I invite you today to do the same. Find a way to activate faith in the name of Jesus in another person’s life.

“By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through him that has given this complete healing to him, as you can all see.” Acts 3:16 (NIV)

Filed under: Devotionals, Outreach by Jose Palacios