About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose. The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!” The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” Acts 16:25-30
Paul and Silas were beaten and imprisoned for sharing the Gospel. Even in this situation, they continued to praise God, and while they were there, they were witnessing to the other prisoners through their songs and prayers. An earthquake frees all them all, but they don’t escape and the jailer is so impressed by their faith and their act of mercy to him that he takes them to his home where he and his family are baptized.
We may never experience the dramatic events that Paul did during his ministry, but we are called to share the Good News just as he did. God acts powerfully in our lives as well, giving us the gifts and opportunities needed to advance His kingdom. We must learn how to use these for the tasks we are given, growing in our love for God and others.
How has God gifted and blessed you? Think of the ways you are wonderfully made that His glory might be displayed and His love shared with the world. God wants to be in relationship with us all, and He has a mission for each of us.
Gracious God, we are grateful for the many ways You call us to serve in the world. Help us to use our gifts for the good of our brothers and sisters and to praise You. Amen.
Thanks for sharing. Powerful as usual. The Word of God is always good!