Today’s Devotion
Topic: The Power Of Intercession
Self Assessment
Background: It is unfortunate that it took the execution of James for the church to rise to her call to intercede. Are you an “intercessor” or the worse always happens before you realized you failed to pray? Kindly reflect on the passage below and share your thoughts with us.
Text: ACTS 12: 2- 7
2 He had James, brother of John, put to death by the sword. 3 When he saw that this met with approval among the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Festival of Unleavened Bread. 4 After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover. 5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him. 6 The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. 7 Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists. Amen
Questions:
i. Herod only cared about his politics. Whatever made him popular before the people, he would do! (Even if it was to adversely affect the Christian community). What is the lesson here for believers who do not pray for those in political authority? In what practical ways can the church be affected by politics if we look on unconcerned?
ii. In your opinion, how powerful is intercession? When we make petitions to God on behalf of others, how much or less can we achieve? (verses 5-6)
iii. By prayer Peter was rescued and brought back to the church that prayed for him. Are there any benefits for us when we intercede for others?
iv. What have you learnt from today’s study?
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