Prayers of the Bibleনমুনা

When was the last time you noticed the power of worship?

Today’s reading is about a prayer from the book of Acts.

Talk about earth moving worship. Literally. Have you ever been standing next to someone in church when they are going through a massive trial, and yet through hardship they sing loud, as if their life depended on it? It’s moving isn’t it, to see someone so compelled by who God is, that despite what is going on in their lives, they still show up and stand up to worship God.

Spurgoen once said, “I have learned to kiss the waves that throws me up against the rock of ages”; which is a powerful image, but what we see in this story of Paul and Silas is the fruit of that very notion. We aren’t just told about earth shattering worship, but the integrity of the people behind the worship. The doors opened, the shackles broke - and despite a door literally opening before their eyes, they did not run from their situation. Instead, they stayed and ultimately shared why.

Because of the prayers, the hymns and faithfulness of Paul and Silas, transformation happened all around them. Prisoners heard the good news; the jailor heard the good news and was saved! Maybe you are the one praying and singing through the storm. Or perhaps there is someone in your life who is, and it is lifting your eyes to the One who is able to bring peace and change.

Today, ponder this: How can you encourage those around you with the power of worship and prayer? Make a playlist that can help move your heart towards God, so then when the storm comes, because it will come, you can have your eyes raised to the heavens.