ACTS of the Apostles

Thursday, May 26

ACTS of the Apostles

Learning How to be Daring and Dynamic

Read Acts 12:6-25

Focus Verse: Acts 12:11

When Peter came to himself, he said, “Now I am sure that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from the hand of Herod and from all that the Jewish people were expecting.”

Sometimes, when life hits us hard, like it has this week with the Uvalde, TX tragedy, we become so discouraged that we lose all hope. The feeling of hopelessness is not new to us living in the modern world. We see that in our scripture reading today; Peter felt hopeless. And based on his circumstances, Peter had every right, by human standards, to want to just give up.

Peter prayed without a clue of how God would get him through. And God was faithful. He showed up in prison through an angel of the Lord and rescued Peter when there was no earthly way for that to happen.

God doesn’t abandon us, no matter how the situation looks or feels. He didn’t abandon Peter, he won’t abandon the individuals and families affected by this recent tragedy, and he won’t abandon you or me – regardless of how hopeless we feel. We must turn to Him, seek Him, cry out to Him, and trust Him – even when it seems that there is no earthly way to get through. Because the truth is – there IS NO EARTHLY WAY to get through moments like we are experiencing now – only a HEAVENLY WAY.

I thought we might could all use some scripture to turn to right about now as many of us are feeling hopeless considering the events of the past two days. Please consider sharing any verses that help you in devastating times. Here are five passages of scripture that I cling to in times of trouble:

1. “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” – Psalm 56:3

2. “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10

3. “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” – Psalm 46:1

4. “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” – Isaiah 26:3

5. “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:1

Dear Lord, today we pray for all those in this world who feel hopeless. We specifically lift up the individuals and families from Uvalde, TX who are dealing with the devastation of the school shooting. We pray that You, Lord, will show up for them with a Heavenly miracle like you showed up for Peter so long ago! We know that You are still in the miracle business and these families need a miracle. Please console those affected with Your peace and wrap them in the comfort of Your Love. Only You can bring hope to the hopeless. In Jesus’ name and for the Father’s glory, Amen.