“Herod … killed James with the sword, and when he saw that it pleased the Jews, arrest[ed] Peter also… He put him in prison, [under] four squads of soldiers… But earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church.
“Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with chains, and sentries were guarding the prison… An angel of the Lord… struck Peter and woke him, saying, ‘Get up.’ And the chain s fell off his hands… ‘Follow me.‘ And he followed him… When they had passed the guard[s],… the iron gate leading into the city opened.., and they went out… Peter… said, ‘I am sure that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me.” Acts 12:1-11
Peter had experienced clear guidance from the Lord before, having opened the gospel to Cornelius and the Gentiles. Many came to believe and rejoice, and for his role in discipling them, he was imprisoned under threat of death. The church rallied in prayer for his deliverance, and God responded in glorious fashion. Communion with God that delivered unto salvation was also powerful to deliver from chains. (Acts 10:1-29,42-44; 11:17-18)
Connection with the Lord God through Jesus is real, and potent. God interacts with His children. He hears and answers prayer. His Spirit initiates, directs, and emboldens. He’s always accessible and translates our expressions, even when we’re unsure how to pray, to God’s perfect will. Do we value and seize the privilege of prayer? Have we by faith explored and implemented its possibilities? (Romans 8:26-27,34)
Many a day can get jumpstarted without our taking advantage of prayer. While the Lord never ceases to watch and keep His own, we miss the practice, shield, and beacon of concentrated, life-giving communion with Him. We neglect the intercession, and forego the opportunities, insight, and inspiration it affords. Prayer sharpens senses and sensibilities, hones character and conscience. It awakens us to beseech God for great things, and gives eyes to see them unfold. It secures the Spirit’s armor and fills with security and expectation. (Ephesians 6:10-18; Philippians 4:6-7; 1 Thessalonians 5:17)
From what bondage to fear, shame, regret, wrong thinking do we need release? What needs weigh heavily, what grief smothers? When will we regularly take time and attention to pray for ourselves, God’s people, His will on earth? He stands ready to deliver and do all things well.
“What a friend we have in Jesus,
all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
all because we do not carry
everything to God in prayer!
Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged;
take it to the Lord in prayer!
Can we find a friend so faithful
who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness;
take it to the Lord in prayer!
Are we weak and heavy laden,
cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge–
take it to the Lord in prayer!
Do your friends despise, forsake you?
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In his arms he’ll take and shield you;
you will find a solace there.” ~Joseph Scriven (1855)
Lord, keep me on my knees and about my hours in earnest, joyful expectancy, praying without ceasing for Your will and glory.
As the rain and snow 