EquippedMama

By Jaci Newell

One of my favorite developmental milestones to witness as a mama has been watching my children learn to walk. Seeing their tiny bodies progress from involuntary newborn movements to rolling and reaching, inchworming and crawling, pulling up to stand and cruising along furniture—all of it building the strength needed for that first independent step—is nothing short of invigorating. And then the moment finally comes. With cameras ready, we use every encouragement we can think of, urging them to let go of what feels safe and trust their tiny, unsteady legs. They wobble like baby deer, trembling through a few brave steps before collapsing into Mama’s arms. It’s unforgettable.

In Acts 3:1–10, we read of another first step—but this was no infant finding his balance. This was a man lame from birth, a man whose feet had never supported his weight, whose muscles had likely never been strengthened through milestones, whose life had been marked by total dependence. Day after day he was carried to the temple gate to beg. Walking was not a skill he had yet to develop; it was an impossibility he had always known. Then he encountered the power of the Holy Spirit through Peter. After fixing his eyes on the apostles, expecting monetary support, he received something infinitely greater. Peter declared in faith, “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” Taking him by the right hand, Peter lifted him — and immediately—immediately—his feet and ankles were made strong. The man who had never stood bore his own weight for the first time. Did he wobble? Did he cautiously test the ground? Did he tremble as he tried to understand muscles he’s never used? No. He leapt. In an instant, he moved from utter dependence to full strength, walking and leaping and praising God. This was not gradual development; this was divine transformation.

As we examine our own lives, can we say with confidence that we are walking testimonies of that same Spirit at work within us? Can we truly testify to a deep, Spirit-wrought transformation—a life made new as promised in 2 Corinthians 5:17—or have most areas of our lives remained largely untouched, with church attendance and polished Christian language merely layered on top? When faced with moral tension, do we boldly stand for truth, or do we limp quietly through, congratulating ourselves for simply avoiding obvious sin? Do we eagerly and outwardly praise God with hearts fully surrendered, or do we confess with our lips what we fail to embody with our actions? When others observe us, do they see the unmistakable evidence of the Holy Spirit’s transforming power—like the crowds who were filled with wonder and amazement at the healed man—or have we blended so seamlessly into the world that we appear unchanged?

Christian, the same Spirit who strengthened lifeless ankles and caused a man to leap now dwells within us. May we surrender fully to His mighty work. May our faith not shuffle forward timidly, but rise boldly. May we not merely stand—but leap.

Jaci Newell serves as a Board Member for EquippedMama.

About Jaci-I live in the Dallas suburbs with my husband, Jordan, our three children, and Weller, our loyal hunting dog. As a stay-at-home mom, I spend my days nurturing our home—shepherding little hearts, baking sourdough, preparing meals to gather friends and family around our table, and creating a space that feels warm and welcoming. In the quieter moments, I love brewing a fresh espresso and diving into thoughtful theological conversations.