Biblical Teaching on Prayer
Acts 16:25-26
About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose.
Pondering Point
This is a biblical example of the power of prayer, a prayer experience that led to the conversion and baptism of a jailer and his family. The power was not of Paul nor of SiIas; it wasn’t the songs they sang or the prayers themselves. The power was in the focal point of the prayers – the God of Paul and Silas.
Therein lies the power to open doors and loose chains – emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual chains. What chains have you been laboring under? Write them down and pray them off.
Prayer for the Day
Look into your world for anyone else who may be suffering under proverbial “chains” like guilt, abuse, fear, anxiety, or poor health. Ask God to loose their chains as well as yours and provide an opportunity to share a testimony of praise to God in response. And make time to listen to the Zach Williams song Chain Breaker. Here’s a look at the chorus:
If you’ve got pain,
He’s a pain taker
If you feel lost,
He’s a way maker
If you need freedom or saving
He’s a prison-shaking Savior
If you’ve got chains,
He’s a chain breaker
Prayer Thoughts
Chapter 29
I have been asked to speak about Papua, and especially about Afghanistan, many times since my visits. One question I continue to be asked is: “Were you ever scared?” The answer returns to my childhood prayer I started with at the beginning of this book.
Bless, Savior dear,
Be always near.
Keep me (and keep all)
From evil, harm, and fear. Amen.
I believe after sixty years of repeating this prayer, almost daily, the Lord answered it again. God kept me “From evil, harm, and fear.” My answer is “Yes and no.” In several situations I did feel in danger but I was given courage by knowing that Jesus was with me every step of the way. Over the years I have learned this truth. Jesus never will let anything happen to me that He and I can’t handle. He knows it all and I know the rest. Ultimately, He is in control. This gives me courage to take risks and do my best in all circumstances.
[Got His book? Read pages 138-141]
~ Keep Me and Keep All, Smith
Also check out Pastor Bob’s answer to Prayer Question #32 on page 276: “How can you tell if you shouldn't pray for something?”