When God Interrupts Our Routine

Acts 3:2 

New International Version (NIV)

Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts.

For meditation

Our house help in Dakar, Ernestine, was so set in her ways that it took her time to finish an important task. She could not wait; either I left the office, or she cleaned around me. It was amusing. She stuck to her routine, unwilling to switch tasks or give me time.

We often fall into routines and get comfortable. Eventually, we become rigid and resistant to change. When we fixate on certain ways and times, we expect no disruption and protest when it occurs. We might even miss new opportunities from a higher power—how often that happens!

The crippled man healed by Peter at the Beautiful Gate had a daily routine (Acts 3:1-8). Each day, he was carried to the temple gate to beg for money (2), likely to his usual spot. This day was no different until God had another plan. The man asked Peter for money, but God gave him the ability to walk and support himself.

“Silver and gold I do not have, but what I have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk” (6).

With that command, God broke the man’s routine. A new life began, giving him reason to praise God in the temple (8).

Have you settled into a routine that enslaves you? What will it take to break free?

Routine is good. But when it becomes rigid and legalistic, it loses its essence. However, joy comes when God interrupts our routine. He brings us a fresh experience with Him.

Are your eyes and ears open to Jesus in your routine? Sometimes, as you go about your day, you must leave room for God to interrupt, refresh, and reset your life. Are you ready for change?

May you be ready for a pleasant surprise from Jesus as He comes into your routine and puts a new song in your mouth—a hymn of praise to God’s goodness (Ps. 40:3).

Pray with Me

I praise you, Lord of possibilities and surprises. I trust you to show up in my routine and surprise me beyond imagination. In Christ my Lord, amen.  

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