by[18] “And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, [19] saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” [20] But Peter said to him, “Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money!” – Acts 8:18-20 (NKJV)
In one of Peter and John’s missionary journeys, they went to Samaria after receiving news that they had accepted the gospel of the Lord Jesus. Back then, the Samaritans had no dealings with the Israelites. They were enemies. So when the news came in, it was a surprise to the apostles. But they were relentless. Peter and John went there so they would help them receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (to speak in tongues). That ministration was so easy for the apostles that an onlooker, Simon, who was once a sorcerer, desired to get such a spiritual gift to do some.
Guess what? Simon offered Peter and John money and told them to give him such power so that anyone on whom he lays hands on might receive the Holy Spirit. But Peter said to him,
“Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money!”
I’m sure Simon was shocked by Peter’s answer. Because he was a recent convert, he was used to practising divination, so he wanted to use God’s power to keep practising divination again as fast as possible. But he didn’t get it. As a pastor, know that new converts usually need discipleship so they’ll grow in the knowledge of the Lord, not spiritual powers to go about doing things “in the name of God.” So, when such requests come to you, even without an offering, tell them the truth.
God’s spiritual gifts are not for sale. The unction God has given you is free; if you impact others with it, you must do it for free. That is why Jesus said in Matthew 10:8 (NIV) that,
“… Freely you have received; freely give.”
Never mortgage God’s spiritual power in your life to anybody. Just use it to impact lives, and if they are blessed enough to appreciate you for what God has used you to help them in their lives, you can receive it willingly.
You are a blessing.
Prayer:
Father, help me to utilise every gift you have given me to impact many lives for the cause of the gospel. In the name of Jesus. Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD – 2026 – 133
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