Acts 4: 23-24: "When they were released, they went to their friends and reported what the chief priests and the elders had said to them. And when they heard it, they lifted their voices together to God and said, “Sovereign Lord, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and everything in them...." To set the scene, Peter and John had been detained and ordered by the rulers and elders in Jerusalem not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus. They were not intimated or deterred from their ministry to preach salvation to all who would hear. Then, they went to pray. Did they pray for ease, for protection, for money, for a better means of transportation to travel to other lands? No! Verse 29 reveals their request: "And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness...." There are two points I want you to notice. First, they acknowledged God's Sovereignty. They knew that whatever happened to them was under the direct control of the One Who made the heaven and the earth. They didn't blame others, the rulers and elders, God or the government. They knew Who was in charge. When you face problems, do you blame someone or do you acknowledge God's Sovereignty over your situation. If you do, you will be empowered to walk in obedience because you are walking with Yahweh (the LORD).
No comments:
Post a Comment