1/27/26

Acts 12:9 NASB95 And he went out and continued to follow, and he did not know that what was being done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision.

Peter was in prison under guard awaiting his execution. When an angel of the Lord came and woke him up. The angel told him to get dressed and follow him. Our text says Peter followed him. Peter, through all of this, wondered if he was dreaming or if what was happening was real.

There are several things we can glean from this episode in Peter's life.

1st suffering comes to even those who follow Jesus. Peter, at this point, was bold in his following of Christ, and yet he was in prison being held for execution.

2nd. You can have peace in the middle of suffering, if you have Christ. Peter was in prison awaiting execution, yet he was sound asleep. He was resting so peacefully that the angel, it says, struck his side to awaken him. This means he actually hit him in the side. This is not a gentle shake. This is enough to ensure being woken up.

3rd. When God acts you will be amazed. Peter wasn't sure he was awake. It was so amazing that he thought it must be a dream. I am amazed at how the Lord answers even me daily.

4th. We must obey even when we are amazed. Even though Peter was unsure if it was real or a dream, he was sure to obey and follow the Lord's guidance.

5th. God will not leave you alone but will provide a way out. Keep looking for his messenger when you are struggling. It is easy to give up, but know that God reveals that he will never leave you without a way.

Jesus is the Way!

Even in death He is the only way to the Father.

Last fervent prayer is the key! Verse 5 of this chapter reveals that fervent prayer was being lifted up by the Church. Acts 12:5 NASB95 So Peter was kept in the prison, but prayer for him was being made fervently by the church to God.

We are presently in a winter storm, so we need to be praying fervently for our brothers and sisters. Storm and suffering comes even to the church. However we can have peace in the middle of the storm. We will be amazed by the actions of God through the church if we obey and let the church know you are in need. You are not, alone. The Lord is with you through His bride, the body of Christ, His church. So let His messengers help.

Love Bro. Scott