While Paul and Silas were beaten and thrown into an "inner prison" (Acts 16:19-24 ASV), they were not despondent. In fact, they were joyful — so much so that they "were praying and singing hymns unto God" (Acts 16:25 ASV).External circumstances cannot destroy a Christian's peace and joy. As they were praising God, the scripture states, "and the prisoners were listening to them" (Acts 16:25 ASV).
Brother Burton Coffman comments on this verse:
"This is one of the most thrilling things ever recorded of the apostolic missionaries and has inspired many a sermon and printed article on "Songs at Midnight." The bleeding, suffering apostles uttering their prayers and singing the praises of God under circumstances such as they were in was something which must indeed have amazed and enthralled the other prisoners."
Not only were Paul and Silas offering sweet praise to God with prayers and singing, they were also ministering to their fellow prisoners, teaching and admonishing them with words of spiritual encouragement. Dear reader, whatever we're doing today, let's cultivate and attitude of praise like Paul and Silas! Whether it's through song or conversation, let our joy in the Lord reverberate to others, encouraging them to render obedience to the Lord (Acts 16:26-34 ASV).
For we never know who might be listening to us!
—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets
Comments
Post a Comment