Immediate Prayer

Acts 4:23-24

When they were released, they went to their friends and reported what the chief priests and the elders had said to them. And when they heard it, they lifted their voiced together to God and said, Sovereign Lord....

 

After Peter and John were released from the council, they went to their friends and told them the story. What was their immediate response? They prayed to the Sovereign Lord who made all things and who had charge of all things [even the council]. They were ready for God to do whatever His hand and His plan had predestined to do. Their one request was not for physical safety or for the threat to be ended, but it was for boldness to speak the gospel. When they had finished praying, the place was shaken, and they were filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with all boldness. What an immediate answer to prayer!

 

What was this new community of believers like? They were of one heart and soul and had no personal possessions. Everything was for the common good. Great power and great grace was upon them as they shared the message of Jesus. Not only that but there were no needy people among them. The followers of Jesus sold all and brought the proceeds to lay at the apostles feet. From there it was distributed to whoever had a need. God was working in a very real, tangible way. Their hearts and lives were totally focused on Jesus. Nothing else mattered as much as sharing the gospel.

 

Father,

Give me boldness to share the message of Jesus. Open my eyes to the opportunities that You have given me. Take my focus off this life and put it on things eternal.

In Jesus name,

Amen