RTW November 11
Earnestly Praying
But while Peter was in prison, the church prayed very earnestly for him.
Acts 12:5
My Takeaways
Something Old
Earnest prayer has power, not because it in itself persuades a reluctant God. Instead, it demonstrates that our heart cares passionately about the things God cares about; fulfilling Jesus’ promise, If you abide in Me and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire and it shall be done for you. (NKJV) John 15:7
Have you ever fervently prayed for something?
Earnest: literally, the word pictures someone stretching out all they can for something. “The verb ektenos is related to ektenes, a medical term describing the stretching of a muscle to its limits.” (MacArthur)
Prayer: to enter into interchange or sharing of thoughts or emotions; intimate communication with God or an object of worship through prayer.
Fervently: having or showing great warmth or intensity of spirit, feeling, enthusiasm, etc.; ardent
Ardent
- having, expressive of, or characterized by intense feeling; passionate; fervent: an ardent vow; ardent love.
- intensely devoted, eager, or enthusiastic; zealous:
Something New
The illusion that the disciples are divinely protected is shattered. James, John’s brother is killed.
Something to Do
Stretch my prayer muscles.
My Takeaways: Share the gospel and pray that it will be well received
Something Old: “But while Peter was in prison, the church prayed very earnestly for him.” -Acts 12:5
Prayer is a powerful tool by which God acts in this world. There are certain things he has decreed but, within the boundaries of his sovereignty, he allows for situations to be influenced significantly by the prayers of his people.
Something New: Peter’s vision opened his eyes that the Gospel message was for everyone, not just the Jews. The same is true today.The Gospel has no boundaries! The good news of salvation in Jesus Christ is for everyone, regardless of gender, color, social status, or nationality. It’s for anyone who dares to believe in Christ and submit to Him as Lord and Savior. No man is too bad or too good for the gospel. Even religious people must bow to Jesus Christ as Lord and trust him as Savior. He is the Lord of all! In saving me, the Lord has shown great mercy. I have the same responsibility to extend the same mercy to others. Today’s reading reiterated again to me the importance of getting the word out to all who will listen.
Something To Do: Share the gospel, starting with my immediate family. Never forget the power of prayer.