Christians in Jerusalem were persecuted by Herod. He had the Apostle James put to death. He saw that this pleased the Jews, so he arrested Peter. Everyone feared the worst. Peter was the spiritual leader and shepherd of the church, and they needed his leadership. But what could they do? They were helpless. So they prayed. Their prayers seemed but a feeble gesture in the face of the power of an evil king who was backed by the ruthless Roman Empire.

Peter was sleeping, chained between two guards. He calmly awaited certain death the next day. God sent his angel to break the chains and open the prison door. Peter finally realized that God was rescuing him and he walked right out of prison. God answered the prayers of the church.

He went to the home of Mary, where the church had gathered to pray for him. When he knocked and called, the servant girl recognized his voice, but she was so astonished that she forgot to open the door. They finally let him in and he told them how the Lord had rescued him. Then he went into hiding for a time. Praise God who answers prayer and rescues his people beyond our imagination.
Application: Father, help me to pray during times of persecution and believe your power to rescue.
One Word: God hears our prayers and rescues his people