Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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True Conversion begins in the Heart. 

Bible Reading:  Acts 8:9-24

Key verse:  " You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God.”. (Acts 8:21)

DEVOTION

In this passage, we meet Simon, a man from Samaria who astonished the people with his sorcery, causing them to believe he possessed divine power. The Samaritans referred to him as “the Great Power of God” and followed him.
When Philip arrived and preached the gospel of Jesus Christ, many including Simon, believed the message and were baptized. This shows that God's salvation is offered to non-Jewish community. Later, the apostles came to Samaria to pray for the new believers, so that they might receive the Holy Spirit.
As Simon continued to follow Philip, he witnessed genuine miracles and observed the apostles imparting the Holy Spirit by laying on hands. Holy spirit was given to new believers because of God's grace. The Samarians opened their heart to receive God's grace. Seeing the power of apostles, Simon  offered them money in an attempt to purchase this divine ability. This act revealed that although he believed, his heart had not truly been transformed. He sought spiritual power for personal gain rather than aligning with God’s will.
Peter quickly realized Simon's actual intention and asked him to pray and repent his sins. Simon recognized his sin and asked Peter to pray for him as well. This highlights that repentance is always possible, but it must be sincere and rooted in God with a desire to transform.
This passage teaches several important lessons:
•         True faith requires transformation: Mere intellectual belief is insufficient; genuine faith demands a humble heart, willing to be changed and fully submitting to God.
•         God’s gifts are entrusted: Spiritual power and grace cannot be purchased. One should not be using the gifts for personal gain.
•         Spiritual leadership requires discernment: Peter’s response to Simon demonstrates the wisdom and authority of a true spiritual leader. His call for repentance highlights the pastoral responsibility to guide others with clarity and truth.

PRAYER

Almighty and gracious Lord, guard our heart from pride and selfish ambition, and help us seek Your Spirit with humility and reverence. May our faith be genuine, not just in word or ritual, but in true surrender to Your will.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 2 Corinthians 5:17


Nibu K. Thomas
The Mar Thoma Church Of Dallas, Carrollton.

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