Peter had been put into prison (Acts 12:1-19, 24). And when you get into the specifics, the situation was even bleaker. Not only was Peter in prison, but he was in the high security zone. Four squads of soldiers were detailed to guard him (v. 4). When he was sleeping, he was placed between two soldiers bound with two chains (v. 6); Further, guards were placed squarely in front of the door. Additionally, there were two sets of guards and an iron gate separating Peter from freedom.
What could the church do about this situation? Peter was part of the church, not a military group. The church had no human means to get Peter out of prison. No Special Forces unit or helicopters to stage a rescue attempt. No means whatsoever at their disposal. They were absolutely helpless. This is why they needed to pray.
Similarly, sometimes we are in situations where we have no recourse. No human help. And we too need to pray. In the impossible situations in life, things begin to change when we pray.
Prayer for Peter was being made very fervently by the church to God. The focus of prayer was crystal clear. The church knew exactly what they were praying for. Peter was in prison. Their prayer was pointed, not vague. There was no “bless the missionaries” or general requests aimed upward in shotgun fashion. And so, when we are in a position of acute need, we know exactly what we are praying for.
Who else was going to pray for Peter? The church were the only ones in a position to pray. No one else knew the situation; no one else cared. If the church didn’t pray for Peter, who was going to? Likewise, we must pray when we feel our needs. Who else will take our needs to God if we do not?
Beloved, God wants us to prayer. It’s not about our plans, our programs, our personalities, our giftedness, or our networks. God wants to teach us to pray, desperately, urgently, fervently.
Say this prayer..
Almighty God, great I AM, you know all about what I am facing right now. There are giants before me: giants of fear, uncertainty, pain and so much more. I don’t know you are going to fight this battle for me but I know that you can fight it and there is nothing too hard for you. You are the same God yesterday, today and tomorrow so as faithful as you were to me before, I trust you will be faithful to me again now. Lord, I am powerless without you. I need you, I need your help, strength and guidance right now. Speak to me Lord. Step in and take control of my situation in the name of Jesus because it is you that I trust and it is to you that I turn for help, my refuge, my shield and strength. Oh hear and answer my prayer Father because I ask it all in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Stay blessed and happy new month.