Throughout history, Christians have faced persecution for political gain, often used as scapegoats or obstacles to power. More recently, in some conflict-ridden regions like Nigeria, militant groups have targeted Christian communities, using violence to instill fear, suppress opposition, or manipulate political narratives.
In Acts 12:1-25, James was killed by King Herod Agrippa’s instruction. As soon as he noticed that James’ death pleased the Jews, he arrested Peter and kept him under tight security so he could publicly try Peter at the Passover. However, by God’s intervention, Peter was released. While the believers were praying for his release, God sent an angel to set Peter free from prison. His release was unbelievable, such that when Rhoda saw him at the gate and went to tell those gathered in the house for prayer, they thought she had gone crazy.
This goes to show the effectiveness of prayer. The believers didn’t allow fear and despair to set in; even after the death of James, they persevered till Peter was released.
Numbers 28 -29 outlined different sacrifices and offerings that were outlined in the law. These various offerings, although they were just a shadow of true worship, showed us that God requires regularity and consistency in our worship. We must consider prayer and worship as effective.
As believers, we should only consider God’s word. The Bible says that the heartfelt prayer of the believer makes tremendous power available. It doesn’t matter what sour experiences we have had or how hopeless a situation seems; pray.
Reflection: Pray always!
Today’s reading
Numbers 28-29
Now the Lord spoke to Moses, saying,
“Command the children of Israel, and say to them, ‘My offering, My food for My offerings made by fire as a sweet aroma to Me, you shall be careful to offer to Me at their appointed time.’
“And you shall say to them, ‘This is the offering made by fire which you shall offer to the Lord: two male lambs in their first year without blemish, day by day, as a regular burnt offering.
Acts 12:1-25
Now about that time, Herod the king stretched out his hand to harass someone from the church.
Then he killed James, the brother of John with the sword.
And because he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to seize Peter also. Now it was during the Days of Unleavened Bread.