Reading in Acts 4:13-31, the men of the council said nothing publicly in opposition to Peter and John who had healed a lame beggar in Jesus’ name. They were astonished at the courage and power Peter and John had demonstrated. On top of that, they could all see that the man who had been healed was standing there with them (v. 14).

The rulers, the elders, and the teachers of the law were concerned about Peter and John because the news of this miracle in Jesus’ name would spread. They had been successful at killing Jesus but His resurrection and now the power received from the Holy Spirit threatened the men of the council.

All the people were praising God for the miraculous healing of the lame beggar and this pressure forced the men of the council to let Peter and John go. Upon their release, they went back to their own people and began to pray for boldness to speak God’s word, for power to heal, and to perform signs and wonders in Jesus’ name.

God answers their prayer as the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly (v.31). They pooled their resources together and shared with those in need. They boldly stood up to those against them and testified about Jesus. God’s grace was at work in them as they were of one heart and of one mind (v. 32).

In today’s times, followers of Christ still face trying circumstances. His Word tells us how to live but society and government backed institutions want us to live another way. Many face scrutiny by the media, in some places of the world they face death, and there are false religions that abuse their members. Followers of Christ do not always get the promotions that their secular counterparts do but there is a sure reward in eternal paradise with Christ.

Today Lord, we do question why … so we pray that You enable us for the challenges and give us the confidence because when we pray, we have great power. Through prayer, we are speaking to the ONE who already has the answer. Today, we pray to be movers and shakers so that others see Your power and want to join in. Enable us to speak Your Word with great boldness and apply our faith as we put Your guidance into practice. In Jesus Name. Amen!

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