Bible Reading: Acts 12
Acts 12:5 Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.
James, the brother of John was dead. Herod had him killed and he saw that it pleased the Jews he arrested Peter too. His intention was to wait until after Easter to execute Peter so he had him in prison. Can you see the animosity that the unbelieving Jews had toward followers of Jesus? By the way, why would people be pleased with the execution of someone who preached a different message than they believe? They were pleased because they thought it blasphemy to call Jesus, Lord.
Peter was bound with two chains to two soldiers and was asleep the night before he was to be killed. Meanwhile the church was gathered together at Mary’s house praying for Peter. As a matter of fact, the Bible says:
Acts 12:5 Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.
Apparently, the church had determined to pray all night for Peter’s release. It was a serious situation. James was already dead and Peter was next! Have you ever had a desperate situation that you could nothing about? What did you do? Did you worry?
Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Did you seek counsel? Or did you pray? And when you pray, do you expect answers to prayer? This story is almost funny because when the angel released Peter, he went to Mary’s house and Rhoda heard his voice at the door. When she told the others that Peter was at the door, they didn’t believe her. Peter had to keep knocking until they finally opened the door and discovered that it truly was Peter outside!
Pray and expect answers to your prayers!
In Christ,
Rody
