Acts 4:1-31 | UnashamedSample

Look at what happens when Peter and John get released. They go back to the disciples to tell them what happened. But instead of everyone cowering down and hiding in a spirit of defeat, they’re emboldened by what they faced!

God promised this kind of thing would happen all the way back in Psalm 2. They’re experiencing it. And from it, they pray with hope:

“Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain?
The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together
Against the Lord and against his anointed one” (Acts 4:26).

They pray with hope because they see what they’re a part of. They pray with joy because they know where the rest of Psalm 2 leads.

Then look at what they pray. Not, “Lord, spare us from persecution. Make it so this never happens again. Protect us from harm and danger.” (No matter how good and justified that kind of prayer might be.)

No. They pray something very different. “Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus” (Acts 4:29-30). Give us the strength and courage to do it again!

What backlash are you afraid of? What have you faced? Memorizing this prayer will serve you well. Like Peter and John, make it your prayer in the dreaded moments you face.

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