From Open Up Your Heart by Jeff Syverson

June 25
Singing at Midnight

Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalm 139:1-12 | 2 Kings 8:1-9:13 | Acts 16:16-40 | Proverbs 17:26

Today’s Scripture Focus: Acts 16:16-40

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose (Acts 16:25-26 NIV)

Sometimes going to a prayer meeting can get you in trouble. On the way to pray, they confronted and brought deliverance to a demon possessed fortune teller, which angered those who profited from her predictions. This led to confrontation, a beating and finally, imprisonment for Paul and Silas.

How would Paul and Silas react to these unexpected circumstances? They prayed and praised God, at the top of their lungs, into the night. About midnight, they were still praying and praising, and doing so loud enough that the other prisoners couldn’t help but listen.

Finally, about midnight, an earthquake interrupted the prayer and praise. The prison was demolished. The chains were broken. Paul and Silas were set free. Prayer and praise led to God breaking chains and setting captives free.

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When confronted with impossible circumstances, remember that prayer and praise can powerfully deliver and set us free. As you approach midnight, do not fear. Do not give up. Keep singing. Keep praying. Keep looking for the intervention of God.

[Excerpts from Singing at Midnight, today’s devotional from Open Up Your Heart by Jeff Syverson. Jeff’s book, Open Up Your Heart is now available at amazon.com]