Resuced

Acts 12:1 - 19

The harsh reality of life is that many of us carry around within us things that trap and imprison us - addictions, emotional scars, behaviours, attitudes, temptations that we give into too often.  We try and often/always succeed in hiding this undesirable part of our lives, but they keep us being less than God wants for us, and keep us imprisoned in guilt, shame and unsociable behaviour.  But this is not the way life should be.  Jesus came to “proclaim freedom to the prisoners” (Lk.4:18).  This is more than the physical freedom that Peter experiences in Acts 12.

To achieve this freedom from the internal things that trap us, we first need to admit that we can't do it on our own.  Peter's freedom came through the miraculous power of the Spirit, but was partnered by the church that "was earnestly praying to God for him" (v 5).  Two things to reflect on, to find your own freedom, is there someone you can share with, a person who is trustworthy and mature, and can they and you commit to praying earnestly?

When Peter's release came, he went to the gathered believers who furthered his escape (v 17).  Living in a broken world, means that the temptation and possibility of becoming re-imprisoned is always present.  We need friends around us to help keep us free.  Friends who will hold us accountable, point out blind spots, encourage and distract us. Who are these people for you?

Finally, we need to believe through action that God can release.  The early church didn't do this, they argued with Rhoda that Peter couldn't be at the door.  Too often we miss out on the power of God to rescue us because we think that it can't be done.  Believe and see what he will do.