Press the play button to watch the video above or press 'more' to read the transcript of the daily devotion below. Please read Acts 8:14-25 (use your own Bible or use the link above to access the in-App Bible).

In the NHS, you can’t pay your way to the top of the waiting list, to the front of the queue at A&E, or to get the freshest chips in the dinner queue. In a world where money gives you power and influence, there is something refreshing about being unable to buy your way out. Simon finds out that this is true in God’s economy too!

Simon sees people receive the gift of the Holy Spirit when Peter and John lay their hands on them. He can see that this is a good and important gift. Yesterday we read about the acts Philip was doing in the power of the Holy Spirit. This is what Simon saw, and he wanted some of it.

Simon’s enthusiasm in some ways seems commendable, he really wants the Holy Spirit. But there is something unsettling about his request. He says he wants to receive the gift so that whoever he lays hands on may receive it too. Simon has practiced sorcery and knew how to draw a crowd, was he thinking this new “holy spirit trick” could make him some more cash? He wants it so much that he’s prepared to pay for it. Peter is not impressed and tells him he can’t buy the gifts of God with money.

God’s gifts are free—they are not given just to those to people with enough money at the end of the month to pay a Holy Spirit monthly subscription. Neither are they just given to those with the right background, qualifications, or style. God’s gifts are free, no one is barred from them. Have you asked God for His gifts?

The book of Acts is a testimony to the Holy Spirit, its power and people’s response to it. As you continue to read through, I wonder what response you might feel to the Holy Spirit? The gift is given freely but is so amazing that we see people dedicate their lives to God and respond to his generosity with praise.

Let us pray: Holy Spirit, please fill us with your life. Amen