Peter’s in the Slammer

The gospel message was controversial, landing Peter in prison. Just before he was to go on trial, an angel springs him, but Peter thinks it’s too good to be true--until he realizes it isn’t. Then a humorous encounter ensues as he tries to meet up with his friends. It turns out that jail cells and persecution cannot hold God back.

Read: Acts 12:1-16 (NLT)

Explore the Theme: We find Peter in jail, surely dreading what is to be his fate, when suddenly he is freed! Not believing his eyes, he blindly follows where the angel leads him as if in a trance. When he finally realizes the reality of his situation, he is overcome with joy and gratitude. Spend a few moments walking through this passage as though you are in Peter’s place. What emotions might he have felt? How might his thoughts about God’s presence in his life have changed?

Ask God: As Peter sat in prison, he might have felt abandoned by God--locked away in a jail cell for doing what God had led him to do. But, God sees him and is with him, even in this space. Has there ever been a time where you have felt persecuted and abandoned by God as you were trying to to do what you thought was right?

Many times, it is hard to notice the good things laid out in front of us. Have you ever felt blind to the ways God is working things out in your life? How does this passage help you understand God’s intentions for your life?

Live it Out: Take some time to reflect on the ways God has worked things out in your life and in your heart to align with his will. Spend some time in prayer giving thanks to God for those moments and ask for a receptive heart that is willing to follow wherever he may lead you.