So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him. Acts 12:5
I continue with my study of - Ten Men of the Bible: How God Used Imperfect People to Change the World - eBook by Max Lucado (for purchase).
This morning, I finish the story of "Peter: Gospel of the Second Chance*".
*Title of lesson nine from the Max Lucado study.
Max Lucado's commentary* for day five of my study describes how King Herod imprisoned Peter in Acts 12 - he emphasizes how the church responded in prayer (Acts 12:5) and how Peter, once freed by an angel of the Lord, goes to Mary's house where she is holding a prayer vigil for Peter (Acts 12:12). Lucado gives us other verses that encourage prayer:
- 1 Thessalonians 5:17: "pray continually"
- Mark 11:17: Jesus refers to the temple as a "house of prayer"
- Matthew 18:19 (MSG): "When two of you get together on anything at all on earth and make a prayer of it, my Father in heaven goes into action."
We are encouraged to pray first when we encounter difficult circumstances, and to listen for how God IS working as He is always at work. Lucado writes:"[n]o other spiritual activity is guaranteed...results".
Comment and discuss this post here.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is always at work, hearing all of my prayers and moving in my life and in the life of others...thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of how You are at work in my life...my sin of worry, and others sins continue. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
