Act 12:5 So Peter was kept in prison, but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church.
It is not clear what the church prayed for. It is assumed that they prayed for Peter's release, according to the outcome. But the fact that they earnestly prayed for him, makes it seems like it was just habitual. If there was a problem, they didn't fight the power, they prayed. They went to God, the one who had the power to help. They didn't turn inward they turned upward.
I love the fact that it says that prayer was made by the church. It wasn't made by individuals, but the collective body of believers. How powerful. I wonder if the spread of Christianity was most accomplished through the prayers of the church rather than the actual people who went to tell others. There are no unimportant people, it was all necessary ofcourse, but I believe the first mode of action was prayer that instigated it all.
Father, help me to operate under your M.O. Help me to first come to you for every situation. And help me to join the body in prayer. I feel as if I am a lone ranger, but help me to join with the entire body to pray for your will to come about on this earth. Amen.
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Thursday, January 31, 2008
2008.01.31. The heart of the father. Acts 7-60
Act 7:60 And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
Stephen's heart is for these people. Even though they are killing him, he is ready to already forgive them. These words of Christ, are familiar to Stephen because He has the mind of God. He knows even though he can convict their hearts and make true statements about them, that his heart is still for them. He has an understanding of where they are and knows that they need forgiveness. He is not concerned about the him being wronged. He is focuses on God's concern for them. His focus is for their hearts. His love is from God. He loves them unconditionally, he doesn't care if they like him or not he will have the mind and heart of Christ regardless.
Father give me this mindset. Would I not fear others thoughts or consequences, but would I be a light for you. And give freely the love you have bestowed upon me. For this is where life is and not even death can stop it. Thanks for life in your son. Amen.
Stephen's heart is for these people. Even though they are killing him, he is ready to already forgive them. These words of Christ, are familiar to Stephen because He has the mind of God. He knows even though he can convict their hearts and make true statements about them, that his heart is still for them. He has an understanding of where they are and knows that they need forgiveness. He is not concerned about the him being wronged. He is focuses on God's concern for them. His focus is for their hearts. His love is from God. He loves them unconditionally, he doesn't care if they like him or not he will have the mind and heart of Christ regardless.
Father give me this mindset. Would I not fear others thoughts or consequences, but would I be a light for you. And give freely the love you have bestowed upon me. For this is where life is and not even death can stop it. Thanks for life in your son. Amen.
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