American Reformation Church Prayer Journal 29

ARC Prayer Meeting

C S Lewis wrote an autobiography called Surprised by Joy. This book traces Lewis’ conversion to Christianity. I know personally that journey into saving faith. I was shocked to find that there was a love that was true in the midst of this cruel, broken, dark world and there was a truth that could set the captive free. All of this was revealed and realized in the person of Jesus Christ. I’m forever grateful for His loving-kindness and tender mercies He has shown to a wretch like me.

Just as C S Lewis was surprised by joy, the Scriptures reveal one can be surprised by answered prayer. There are times when we pray in weakness, our minds cluttered with the cares of this world, our souls burdened with worry, and there are times when we pray in unbelief. Regardless, we muddle through our prayers and hope for the best. This dilemma increases when we pray in the face of impossible situations.

In the book of Acts, we discover this situation. Persecution against the early church was unleashed. King Herod stretched out his hand to harm God’s people. He had James, the brother of John, put to death and had captured Peter with the same murderous intent. Constant prayer went before the throne of God’s grace on the behalf of Peter’s plight. They were beseeching God to be merciful and deliver Peter from the hands of those who would bring about his martyrdom.

When the prayers began, Peter was locked away in a secure prison being guarded by over 50 soldiers. His fate was sealed. The next day he would be put to death. But God! The Lord heard from on high the prayers of the saints, sent forth his angel to deliver Peter, set him free, and brought him to the prayer meeting that was seeking God on his behalf. A comical reunion took place. They prayed for his release, he was at the door, but they didn't believe it was him. It was a “hope against all hope” circumstance. It was “we believe Lord, but help our unbelief” moment.

To say they were surprised by answered prayer is an understatement. They were astonished. It was surreal to them and yet there he was in answer to their prayers. Obviously, once they knew it was truly him and not his angel, they rejoiced.

We serve a mighty God and there is nothing to hard for Him. All things are possible with God and those who believe. This is the confidence we should have as we approach the throne of grace in our time of need and what seems an impossible circumstance in Jesus’ name!

American Reformation Church Website: