The gift of God can't be bought with money

Acts  8:17 Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.  8:18 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,  8:19 Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.

In Acts 8, we see Simon, who was once a sorcerer and used to impressing people with his powers, offering money to receive the ability to impart the Holy Spirit. He saw the apostles laying their hands on believers and the power of God transforming lives, and he thought, “I want that!” But instead of seeing it as a gift to receive humbly, he saw it as something he could buy, as if he was shopping for magic.

The first truth that stands out about this story is that, God's  gifts are not for sale. Salvation, the Holy Spirit, grace, love, forgiveness—these are all gifts from God that are given freely to those who believe. In fact, they are priceless, beyond any earthly currency. 

When Jesus died on the cross, He paid the price for our sins—a price none of us could ever afford. It’s because of His grace and mercy, not our own efforts or wealth, that we can receive these gifts.

We must remember that the kingdom of God operates on a different economy. In this world, so many things are bought and sold, and people are often valued based on their material wealth or social standing. But God’s kingdom is not transactional; it’s relational. God doesn't want our money—He wants our hearts. He wants our surrender, our love, and our faith.

Simon’s story also teaches us that our intentions matter to God. Simon had followed the apostles and seen the miracles. He was intrigued, but his motives were mixed. Instead of seeking a genuine relationship with God, he was interested in power and influence. He saw the apostles as powerful men and wanted what they had for his own gain. But Peter rebuked him, making it clear that the Holy Spirit isn’t something to be manipulated or controlled for selfish purposes.

When we approach God, we should come with a pure heart. We shouldn’t serve Him with hidden agendas or treat Him as a means to an end. When we ask for His gifts, we should seek them for His glory, not our own. Our generosity, worship, and prayers should flow from sincere love, not from an attempt to buy favor.

Furthermore, It’s easy in our culture to think that money or material wealth is the ultimate measure of success, security, or even God’s blessing. But Scripture reminds us repeatedly that the greatest riches come from knowing Christ. Paul says in Philippians 3:8, “I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” Knowing Jesus and experiencing the presence of the Holy Spirit is a gift far more valuable than anything this world can offer.

In the book of Proverbs, we’re told that “wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her” (Proverbs 8:11). This wisdom is found in a life lived close to God, in walking in His truth, and being filled with His Spirit. As believers, we have access to a peace, joy, and purpose that money can never buy.

Finally, like Simon,  many of us also often  get caught up in thinking we have to earn or somehow pay for God’s favor. But Jesus invites us to come to Him just as we are, to receive His grace and love freely. He says in Matthew 10:8, “Freely you have received; freely give.” The gifts of God are meant to be received with gratitude and given to others, not held tightly or used for our own gain.

In the same way, we are called to serve others, give to those in need, pray, and share the good news freely. We are conduits of God’s love and power, called to share His blessings without charge, just as they were given to us.

In conclusion, let’s recognize that His blessings are treasures of love, grace, and eternal life that no amount of money could ever buy. Let us seek Him with pure hearts, grateful and humble, knowing that our greatest wealth is found in a relationship with Him.

God bless you. 

Prayer key:

1. Lord, thank you for the blessing of your word today in Jesus Christ name. 

2. Lord, help me to use the gifts you have given me for the benefit of humanity in Jesus Christ name. 

3. Lord, make us conduit of your love and power in this generation in Jesus Christ name. 

4. Thank you Lord for answered prayers in Jesus Christ name. Amen.