Day 36/260: Read Acts 12

James the brother of John had been martyred for the cause of Christ. Herod planned further violence against the church as the Jews reacted favorably to this action. Peter was arrested, but before Herod could strike him down, an angel rescued him from prison.

The church was offering “constant prayer” on Peter’s behalf. But did they really believe what they were praying? When Peter showed up at the door and John Mark’s mother told the others, they didn’t believe her. They thought she was crazy. “You are beside yourself!”

Finally they opened the door and saw the apostle standing there, “they were astonished.” Why? Hadn’t they been praying for this very outcome?

How confident are we in our prayers to the Almighty? Why are we often “astonished” when our prayers are answered? Do our doubts hinder the success of our efforts in the kingdom?

James tells us to ask God for wisdom, but warns, “But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind.” We should never be amazed by the power of God.

Memory (Read aloud 5-10 times)

Acts 16:33. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their stripes. And immediately he and all his family were baptized.

Pray

Pray for more confidence in God’s ability and desire to answer the prayers offered according to His will.