“So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was praying fervently to God for him.” (v. 5)

Through every season of life—from the beginning of Jesus’s church to today—they have been there. Brothers, sisters, nearby relations and far-off friends. Fellow believers.

And they’re in trouble.

The question is, Will we pray for them?

Peter, during a time of persecution, found himself in prison. In all likelihood, he was headed for the worst—the same fate as James the Greater—meaning death and martyrdom.

But! His friends—the church—prayed for him, and fervently.

What about us?

When you think of the great many Christians, of their problems and their pains and their persecution, do you pray? Do you plead for their release? Do you ask for God’s miracle on their behalf? Do you, for brothers and sisters near or far, pray with any kind of fervent urgency?

The Lord answered the prayers of Peter’s friends, of the church. And He still answers when the church prays today. So pray, fervently, for those in need—and give Him praise when He delivers them.

— Tyler