Now Peter continued knocking; and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished.

Acts 12:16 NKJV

Herod had thrown Peter in prison for preaching the gospel. This was the third imprisonment for the beloved leader of the early church. His execution was scheduled for the following morning. The church was in constant prayer for his release, which would take a miracle due to the intense security of the prison. Peter was chained between two guards, and two were posted at the door.

Peter slept on the cold prison floor. He was at peace with his situation, knowing God was in control. An angel appeared and the chains fell off Peter’s hands. The gates of the prison were open, and the angel led Peter past the guards into the city.

He immediately went to Mary’s house. Mary was the mother of Mark, and it was the location of the prayer meeting. When Rhoda answered the door, she was so excited to see Peter she shut the door without letting him in the house. She proclaimed the good news to the group, but they did not believe her. Actually, they did not believe their prayers had been answered. Finally, Peter knocked again, and they let him in.

We see three things here. First, Peter had the perfect peace of God upon him while he was in a hopeless circumstance. God brings hope to hopeless situations.

Second, Peter’s release was miraculous. God can change things no matter how impossible they seem. Nothing is too hard for God.

Finally, there are the lessons we can learn about prayer. God hears the prayers of His people. However, we must have faith that He will answer our prayers. After this day, the faith of these prayer warriors was increased.

What chains bind you today? What prison holds you captive? As you pray, trust God to break the chains. Believe He will deliver you in His perfect timing. Expect answers when you pray.

MEMORY VERSE

“And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” John 14:13 NKJV

OPEN YOUR BIBLE

Read Acts 12:1-24.

THE NAMES OF GOD

Jehovah El Gemuwal – Lord God of Recompense

“Because the plunderer comes against her, against Babylon, And her mighty men are taken. Every one of their bows is broken; For the Lord is the God of recompense, He will surely repay.” Jer. 51:56 NKJV

What happened to Herod after the death of James and the imprisonment of Peter? Jehovah El Gemuwal repaid Herod with death for touching His anointed apostles. In these last days, we see persecution and execution of Christians on the rise. It is encouraging to know Jehovah El Gemuwal will have the final victory.

WALKING THE WALK

Are you astonished when God answers your prayer? Choose one prayer request which lines up with Scripture, and expect your answer.

Heavenly Father,

Forgive us when our faith fades, and we are surprised when You answer our prayers. Increase our trust in You so we will be expecting our answers. Thank You. Amen.

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Did you like this devotional in this format? Then check out the book it is from… Incense Rising: 60 Days to Powerful Prayer

Originally posted on August 23, 2021 @ 3:00 am