The September reset is here, sparking a flurry of activities. Students return to school, and clubs and other activities start a new season after the summer hiatus. Soon, summer closes shop for another year, and a new chapter of our lives opens.
In January 2026, I wrote about standing on the precipice of possibility, and September feels like another launch pad. As I considered the September reset and the many options before us, a Bible story caught my attention in a new way. It might not have been September, but it is applicable. I envisioned a character on a launch pad, facing a gap between reality and possibility. A whole new chapter of life was before him, and he could use that launch pad or remain rooted to the pavement. Let’s see where his choice led him.
Acts 3:1-10 records the story, and although we don’t know the man’s name, we do know a little about him. Every day, someone carried him to the temple gate to beg because he was born with a physical disability. As they approached, the man asked Peter and John for money, but they didn’t have any. However, Peter offered what he did have. He and John asked for the gentleman’s full attention, looked straight at him, and Peter declared, “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” (v. 6). The disabled man had asked for a few coins, but Peter offered him a whole new life.
I’ve always read that story as an object lesson showing God’s power to heal. But hidden in plain sight in that narrative is something I had never thought much about. Verses 7-8a read, “ Taking him by the right hand, he [Peter] helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk.” To span that chasm between reality and possibility and enter a new chapter of his life, he needed to believe what Peter said, exercise his faith, and act on it.
He accepted Peter’s outstretched hand.
And as he stood, his healing happened—not while he sat.
From his seated position, the man saw no evidence that anything was different or that it would change. But he acted in faith and accepted Peter’s hand. His faith came before his healing.
As we contemplate our September reset and face the launch pad of a new chapter, is there something waiting for you across that gap between reality and possibility? Has God called you to do something, but you’re afraid to take that first baby step of faith and stand on wobbly legs? There have been times in my life when fear has kept me riveted to the pavement. But when I’ve trusted God, acted in faith, and stood on shaking legs, it’s been worth it. The fact that I’ve posted this blog article shows I once dared to take a huge step of faith and begin writing.
So, as you consider your September reset, are there nudges you’ve ignored or put on the back burner? Will this season be a launch pad sending you to places God has in store, or will you remain on the pavement or locked into activities that would crowd out your time for something more worthwhile? The man in the Bible story went from disabled to wobbly first steps to “walking and leaping and praising God” (v.8). He had to leave the familiar behind and step out in faith. A new chapter awaits you. Will you use the launch pad or hug the pavement?
Dr. Seuss said it well, “Oh, the places you’ll go!”
“Now may the God of peace who by the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead the great shepherd of the sheep, our Lord Jesus, equip you with every good thing to do his will.” (Emphasis mine).
Hebrews 13:20–21a (NET)
Until next time,
Brenda Erb Roberts
Thank you for reading this. I’m happy you did.
For further reading:
My previous Inspirational reflection: Water, Water, More Water, and a Window.
Looking Back: Last September’s Inspirational article: When the World Tilts. God continues to walk with us and show Himself faithful in many ways.
My latest Lighter Side (Humour) blog post: Why People Now Lock Their Cars.
Looking for some encouraging music? I love the song I Know a Name. It’s worth a listen.