Scripture: “But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed.” Acts 16:25-26
Reflection: In Acts 16, Paul and Silas were beaten and thrown in prison for preaching the gospel. While in prison, Paul and Silas sat with their feet in chains singing hymns to God. At midnight, an earthquake broke open the prison doors, setting the prisoners free. The jailer feared that his superiors would blame him for the jail break, and he prepared to run himself through with his sword rather than face the punishment. Paul and Silas convinced him not to harm himself, they preached the gospel to him, and he was saved accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, along with his entire household that night! From the biblical record of Paul and Silas we learn the value of faithful friends and dedicated servants of the Lord in spreading the gospel. Another thing we can take from this story is to never underestimate the power of prayer. We all need deliverance and to break free from chains that has held us bound; praise and pray until the chains fall off – you will be delivered and set free.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Paul and Silas praying and singing hymns to You while being imprisoned. Guide me to follow You and praise You even in times of difficulty. Grant me the ability to give thanks in all things, even in hardship – for You are worthy of all praise, Lord. I pray for courage to share the gospel with others and serve to build up Your kingdom. In Jesus Name, Amen.