Daily devotion: When the Church prays!
When the Church Prays Under Pressure
When the church heard of the threats against Peter and John, their response was immediate.
Acts 4:24
“They lifted up their voice to God with one accord and said, ‘Lord, You are God, who made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them.’”
At this dangerous and uncertain moment, the church did not panic, protest, or retreat.
They prayed—together.
This is true Christian fellowship: unity expressed in prayer. Peter and John had been bold in their witness, and they were equally bold in turning to God.
1. Their Prayer Began with God
Their first words were simple and profound:
“Lord, You are God.”
The word Lord (Despotes) means Sovereign Master. Before they mentioned threats or made requests, they acknowledged God’s absolute authority.
Men could threaten, but God rules.
The edicts of men cannot overturn the decrees of God.
2. They Focused on God Before the Problem
Before asking for anything, they filled their minds with who God is:
Creator – “You made heaven and earth” (v.24)
Revealer – “You spoke by the Holy Spirit” (vv.25–26)
Sovereign over history – “You decided” (v.28)
Their prayer was grounded in faith, not fear.
“Without faith it is impossible to please Him.” (Heb 11:6)
3. What They Asked For
Their requests were not for comfort or safety.
“Look upon their threats” – not remove them, but consider them.
“Grant Your servants boldness” – power to speak God’s Word without fear.
“Stretch out Your hand” – miracles of mercy for the glory of Jesus.
God’s Answer
Acts 4:31
“The place was shaken, they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.”
God answered immediately—with power, filling, and bold proclamation. And the fruit followed:
Acts 5:12 – many signs and wonders were done.
God is calling us, you and I, to be a praying church— united, Spirit-filled, and bold.
A people who, when pressured, pray.
And when God’s people pray—God moves.