The early church was blessed by dramatic growth, miracles, and determined leadership. These things touched their world and made a difference.
What they gained, they gained out of trial and affliction. Some were killed.
Peter was thrown into prison, yet he was able to soundly sleep while bound with two chains between two soldiers as the church constantly prayed.
What a difference it makes when you know God is in control.
Acts 12:7-8 And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands.
[8] And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me.
The Humor of this story is that the church praying for Peter’’s’ release refused to believe it when it happened. That’s just like us.
Isn’t it a delight when God delivers us from the trials of life? That’s His business. He always delivers. Believe it.
Ideas for this unprofitable blog are taken from The Sermon Notebook—Biblical resources for preachers and teachers of the word of God. They allow these sermons to be used as the Lord leads but not for profit.
