Today’s 333 Devotional: “God Cannot Be Bought”

As the church began to extend its boundaries, Philip went into the area of Samaria, and through the preaching of the gospel a great revival broke. Multitudes were coming into the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

When the Apostle’s heard of it, Peter and John went to see this great work, but soon found that the believers had yet to be filled or baptized with the Holy Spirit, so they laid hands on them and they received the Baptism.

During this time there was a sorcerer named Simon who followed Philip marveling at what God was doing. When he saw the Holy Spirit coming upon those whom Peter and John laid hands on he offered them money so he could do the same.

“But Peter said to him, ‘Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money.’” (Acts 8:20)

The lesson is simple; the Spirit of God is not for sale. You don’t have to pay God to receive His free gift of salvation or the power of the Holy Spirit – it is free of charge.

However what is required is a heart that’s right before God, one that confesses sin, repents and believes in Jesus Christ.

This is what Peter said to Simon.

“Your heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you” (Acts 8:21b-22).

God cannot be bought, nor will he be persuaded to give you what you want because you give to some charity or give an offering at church. Money is not the exchange for God to work in your life. If you want the power of the Holy Spirit you have to give God what He wants, and that is all of you.

It is the heart of the Great Commandment to love the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30).