Seeing Is Not Always Believing

Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.
Acts 12:5

If the opponents of the church had known better, they would have left it alone.

Persecution only poured oil on the fire, spreading the gospel all the more. Killing James and imprisoning Peter drove the church to its knees—not in submission, but in prayer.

Yet even the church was surprised by God’s miraculous power! A. B. Simpson reflects on the awesome power of prayer.

WALK WITH A. B. SIMPSON
“Prayer is the link that connects us with God. It is the bridge that spans every gulf and bears us over every abyss of danger or need.

“How significant is this picture of the New Testament church: Peter in prison, the Jews triumphant, Herod supreme, the arena of martyrdom awaiting the dawning of the morning.

“ ‘But the church was earnestly praying to God for him.’

“And what is the sequel?

“The prison open, the apostle free, the Jews baffled, the wicked king divinely smitten, and the Word of God rolling on in greater victory.

“Do we know the power of our supernatural weapon? Do we dare to use it with the authority of a faith that commands as well as asks? God grant us holy audacity and divine confidence.

“He is not wanting great men and women, but he is wanting people who will dare to prove the greatness of their God.”

WALK CLOSER TO GOD
Which motto summarizes your habits in prayer? “When all else fails, pray.” “Before doing anything, pray.”

The first views prayer as the place of last resort when human abilities have run out. The second realizes that unless God empowers and directs, human strength and wisdom will never suffice.

Are you tired of trying to stand on your own?

Dropping to your knees gives God the opportunity to prove his greatness in your life.