“When they heard it, they lifted their voices together to God and said, ‘Sovereign Lord, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and everything in them…
“‘In this city there were gathered together against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, along with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, to do whatever your hand and your plan had predestined to take place. And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness, while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus.’ And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.
“Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common. And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need.” Acts 4:24,27-35
“If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14
Boldness begat brute opposition begat brave proclamation begat bolder prayer. The disciples were learning life without Jesus in the flesh now fueled by His Spirit within, and their muscles stretched and strengthened with each day. Trust and public tests led to large and confident asking for more, and God answered by shaking. He shook off reluctance and fear, shook awake fire in speech, rich fellowship, and lavish generosity. (Acts 4:5-23)
Prayer that begins with acknowledging Who God is and what He has done sets the mind aright: high view of God, humbled, dependent. Prayer that is based on His character and truth attaches need to His wonders, desire to His will. God responds in palpable power in and among His people. His Spirit equips and emboldens, igniting courage, passion, selflessness, and compassion. Prayer that opens God’s children to His ministry results in significant changes of mindset, habit, and direction. What does my prayer life reveal about my view of and relationship to God Almighty, and my kingdom priorities? If it begins and ends with me, it needs some shaking.
What needs such revival and fresh energy in our lives? Is our prayer life limp and anemic, visionless? (Do we even have one?) Have we grown complacent in spiritual growth or service to our church or others? Have we allowed success to numb desperation, or age to diminish effort or passion? As the Lord brings us through changing seasons, He intends and commands constant filling for each such a time. He faithfully determines needs and the means to fulfill them. (Esther 4:14; Ephesians 5:18)
Lord, guard me from dwindling in passion and prayer by shaking me daily to Your call, work, and glory.
As the rain and snow 