2/7/2024
Acts 12:1-5, Acts 12:14-17
vs. 1-5
Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.) And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people. Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.
vs. 14-17
And when she knew Peter’s voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate. And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel. But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished. But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place.
As you may be able to tell, I am currently reading through the book of Acts. And, I love reading in the scriptures about answered prayers. We learn from the early church how important it is to pray for each other. God is listening and hears our prayers. I’m so thankful for a God that hears us. Thinking of this reminds me also of Elijah and the prophets of Baal. (Another one of my favorite scriptures-you’ll see I have lots of favorites.) The prophets of Baal cry and do other things trying to get the attention of their god (notice the little g in god). However, when Elijah cries out to our Heavenly Father, God answers him. Just as God answered the church as they prayed for Peter, and he answered Elijah when he prayed. God answers us also. The answer may not be what we expected, but we know He created us. He knows what we need. I want to encourage you to remember to pray today. He listening!
