Prayer is a powerful thing and the early church learned that by having to pray and believe for miracles to happen almost daily. Their friends and leaders were being killed by the sword (James in the first part of chapter 12) and thrown into prison (Peter). But as they prayed, which was the only thing they could do, miracles happened. I love this story - first Peter thinks he is dreaming and then realizes he is really out of prison and then the people he goes to can't really believe he is free, even thought they are praying that the Lord would free him. That always makes me laugh. We are so like that when we pray for something. So many times the Lord answers those prayers and we keep praying, thinking He hasn't heard us. Here Peter was standing at the door and they couldn't believe it.
Another thing the church learned was to include fasting with their prayer if they were seeking the Lord for an answer. God spoke to them so clearly when they set their hearts to hear from Him. They learned the power of the Holy Spirit too. This power enabled them to speak and preach with power that brought many to believe and were saved. Spending time with the Lord in fasting and prayer brings that power. More of Him and less of us brings that power. As I read Acts I am always challenged to pray more and believe more and fast more.........! It makes me want to see those same kind of miracle that the early church saw. We need them too!! I think we just give in too easily and don't fight harder for what we know can happen - when God steps in!!!
This week, as we continue in Acts, lets believe God to do those miracles that are needed for our friends and family! What are you believing for???
2 comments:
When I used to read these passages when I was younger I always focused on what Paul was doing. Recently God keeps showing me Barnabus. Paul seemed to get the spot light more often then not (and always seemed to be the one talking), but I wonder how far he would have traveled or resolved he would have been if Barnabus wouldn't have been at his side.
Great point. I was reading ahead in chapter 14 for tomorrow's post and that is what the Lord was showing me, how important the followers were - and are! Thanks for the comment.
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