Read vs 13-17 again. Why would people pray earnestly but would not believe when their prayers was answered? Do we also behave like this sometimes? The reaction of the early Christians to the release of Peter shows that on many occasions while we are praying, especially about cases that we consider hopeless, we often entertain some doubts. James rightly warned against doubting when we pray (James 1:6-8). However in spite of our doubts, God still goes ahead to answer our prayers, just because of his love and mercy.
Meanwhile, picture the state of the soldiers who were keeping watch over Peter. We pity the way they found their death, mere victims of autocratic and wicked rulers. But wicked Herod himself was struck dead by an angel of God (vs 21-23). In vivid contrast, however, "the word of God continued to increase and spread" (v.24). This is a reminder to us that earth tyrants will come and go, but their cruelty, hatred and persecution will remain powerless to arrest the onward progress of the cause of Christ and his Church.
Meditate on Philippians 1:27-29 and thank God because he has the final say.
Lord, help me never to limit you in my thoughts through doubts
©Scripture Union Nigeria
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