Acts 12:5 – So Peter was kept in jail, but the church was constantly praying to God for him. Pain, sorrow, and loss drive us to prayer – and to a turning point – here I this story, and always. James is beheaded by Herod and Peter is awaiting his execution in jail… but prayer was made. This is the turning point of the entire chapter. Although it begins with Herod in a rampage, the chapter ends with the gospel on a rampage: “the word of God grew and multiplied” (verse 24). In the end, Jesus’ reputation, not Herod’s, was increased through these events; but it is at the point of prayer that the massive shift in direction occurs. And there are four notable elements of this pivotal prayer: First, it was without ceasing (this means praying was never-ending). Jesus himself tells us that we will continue receiving and finding as we continue asking and searching (Matthew 7:7). Second, the prayer was made by the church. If we do not pray for one another in the body of Christ, who will pray for us? Third, this prayer was unto God. Not all prayer is to the one true and living God. Jesus says, “The only way to the Father is through me” (John 14:6). And fourth, the prayer was made for him, for Peter. Personal, intercessory prayer (a prayer to God on behalf of others) is Christ’s command to his church. We are to “Don’t forget those who are in prison. Remember them as though you were in prison with them” (Hebrews 13:3). Does this kind of prayer characterize and permeate your closet, your church? If so, then rest assured that it will be a turning point in the midst of your needs and wounds and losses.
Posted on: Sat, 09 Nov 2013 01:00:01 +0000