By Andrew Williams
Acts 12:6-8 (NLT): “The night before Peter was to be placed on trial, he was asleep, fastened with two chains between two soldiers. Others stood guard at the prison gate. Suddenly, there was a bright light in the cell, and an angel of the Lord stood before Peter. The angel struck him on the side to awaken him and said, ‘Quick! Get up!’ And the chains fell off his wrists. Then the angel told him, ‘Get dressed and put on your sandals.’ And he did. ‘Now put on your coat and follow me,’ the angel ordered.”
Good morning fellow disciples.
This powerful moment shows the sovereignty and power of God in the midst of a seemingly impossible situation. Peter was chained, surrounded by guards, and on the eve of what appeared to be his final hours. Yet, while the world prepared for his defeat, God was preparing his deliverance.
Notice Peter’s state: he was asleep. Despite his dire circumstances, Peter was at peace, fully trusting in God’s plan. Then, at the perfect moment, God sent an angel to rescue him. The chains that bound Peter fell off, and he was led out of the prison by divine intervention. This passage reminds us that God is never late and that His power can break through any chain, any barrier, and any darkness.
It also emphasizes the importance of obedience. When the angel instructed Peter to get up, get dressed, and follow, Peter didn’t hesitate. He obeyed step by step, even though he didn’t yet fully understand the scope of what God was doing.
Peter’s faith and obedience in this moment empower us to trust God’s timing and follow His instructions, even when we don’t fully understand. Peter’s peace while asleep in chains inspires us to rest in God, knowing that He is always in control, no matter how bleak the circumstances may seem.
Peter’s deliverance also reminds us that God’s power is greater than any situation we face. His chains fell off not because of his own strength, but because of God’s intervention. This truth empowers us to believe in the God who breaks chains, opens doors, and leads us into freedom.
Are you feeling bound by circumstances or overwhelmed by trials? Redirect your focus from the chains to the God who has the power to break them. Trust that His timing is perfect, and, like Peter, be ready to obey His instructions when He moves in your life. Choose to rest in His peace, knowing that He is always working on your behalf.
Take a few moments to reflect on an area of your life where you feel stuck or hopeless. Surrender it to God in prayer, asking Him to move in His power. Then, commit to listening for His guidance and obeying Him step by step, even when the way forward isn’t fully clear.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for the reminder that You are the God who breaks chains and sets captives free. Help me to redirect my focus from my circumstances to Your power and faithfulness. Teach me to trust Your timing and to rest in Your peace, even in the midst of challenges. I commit to following Your instructions with obedience, step by step, as You lead me into freedom. Thank You for always being at work in my life. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
