October 18, 2011 (Job 3-4; Acts 8-9)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “You can have no part in this, for your heart is not right with God.” Acts 8:21 NLT
Observation: Simon was a sorcerer that had heard the gospel message and believed in the Lord Jesus Christ. For many years he amazed the people and astounded them with his magic. The people spoke of him as “the Great One” and he went right along with them, he referred to himself as someone great. When he witnessed Peter and John lay hands on the new believers and they subsequently received the Holy Spirit, he wanted the power to do this as well. But Peter quickly set him straight, “May your money be destroyed with you for thinking God’s gift can be bought! You can have no part in this, for your heart is not right with God. Repent of your wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps He will forgive your evil thoughts, for I can see that you are full of bitter jealousy and are held captive by sin.”
Application: I don’t have to wonder what people would do if others offered to purchase the gifts of God today, the evidence is clear. Religion has become big business, especially inAmerica. Instead of being rebuked, Simon would be asked, “How much is this gift worth to you?” We would gladly set Simon up on a payment plan! Could this be the reason why so few have part in the great power of the Holy Spirit? Could it be that our hearts are not right with God? Simon believed in Christ and was baptized, yet his heart was still not right with God. Simon is a great example of a person that professed to believe in Christ and went through the motions of baptism, yet he failed to perform the most important part of conversion, repentance. His heart was not changed, neither was his mind. True salvation changes both your mind and heart and makes them both right with God.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for this day. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me every day. Thank You for the heart changing, mind changing, and life changing salvation that You give through Your Son Jesus. Thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit that fills me. Give me the wisdom to know what’s right and the courage to do what’s right, even when it’s hard. In Jesus name, Amen!