Read Acts 4:23-31
The Sanhedrin had attempted to silence witness of Peter and John concerning the resurrection of Jesus. Bold threats had been made by the very ones who had manipulated the crowd to cry to Pilate for the blood of Jesus to be spilt. Upon their release, they gathered with fellow believers and held a prayer meeting rather than a pity party. Many churches today would do just the opposite! It comes natural to complain. But it is supernatural to cry out to God, and that is just what they did.
Reread their prayer in verses 24-30. Notice how their cries to God did not center on their problems and preferences, but rather on the presence and power of God. They used phrases like, “Your hand... Your purpose. . . Your servants... Your Word.” They were more concerned for God’s reputation and His glory than the threats they had received. When was the last time you cried out to God on behalf of your pastor and local church? What motivated your cries to the Father? Ask God to guide you in praying a Father-focused prayer for your pastor and congregation:
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