Trouble & Prayer
I’ve been reading the book of Acts this week. It’s packed with stories about the birth of the church, and shows how the first ‘disciples’ became bold in telling people about Jesus as well as doing the things He did. In chapter 12 Peter, one of the first ‘disciples’, had been arrested and thrown into jail by King Herod, because of his faith. The Bible says that whilst there, the church was praying for him...
“The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. ‘Quick, get up!’ he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists. ”
This angel led Peter out of prison and left him in the street. Immediately Peter rushed to those who were praying for him - they were shocked to see him! Two things stood out for me: Firstly, Peter was imprisoned because of his faith. Being a Christian today does not mean escaping hardship, trouble or persecution, but as God was with Peter, He promises to be with us too. The second thing is the power of prayer: God heard the prayers of the church an acted by releasing Peter in a miraculous way. So if you know of people facing tough times, keep praying for them as God may act, just as He did for Peter!
Gary Bastin - Hope Community Church leader