DECEMBER 13, Acts 12:1-16

Satan can use political powers or kings or government to persecute God’s people. One method to attack a church is to do something to the ministers and leaders. In chapter 12, King Herod killed Apostle James and captured Apostle Peter. They were both leaders of the Jerusalem church. It was a dangerous moment for the church. Did the church collapse? Did the members hide for fear of their lives or torture? Did they renounce their faith? Not at all!

The church prayed! The response was one of trusting God and turning to Him for help. Their prayer was full of perseverance and lasted for seven days. Can you imagine that kind of prayer marathon! They needed Peter to do the work of God in Jerusalem.

We know from the Bible that Peter eventually escaped from prison in the most miraculous way! Interestingly, when Peter came to the house where the believers were praying, a young girl opened the door and announced that the apostle was at the door. But, those inside were reluctant to believe that God had answered their prayers. Although they prayed, they doubted. They were not super Christians. But God still answered their prayers.

Do you doubt when you pray?

Another James in his epistle wrote against doubting in prayer. Mind you, this James was not the one that was killed by Herod. He was the brother of Jesus who also wrote the book of James. Turn to James 1:6-8, and fill in the blanks:

But let him ask in ___________ , nothing ___________ .

For he that wavereth is like a wave of the ___________ driven

with the ___________ and tossed. For let not that man think

that he shall ___________ any thing of the ___________ .

A double minded man is ___________ in all his ways.

Thought: Don’t doubt God when praying.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for hearing all our prayers. Teach me to pray in faith believing that You are able to accomplish anything if it is according to Your will. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.