“But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed” Acts 16:25-26, NKJV.

Paul and Silas were going through a challenging situation in their lives. Having been beaten and thrown into jail wasn’t a pleasant experience. However, they decided not to abide in their circumstance but in God while in their situation. They prayed and praised, and the Lord suddenly came through. He rescued them from prison and, at the same time, saved the jailer with his whole household (v. 30-34)! What a mighty God we serve!

When going through challenging situations, it can be a fight to keep your mind on Jesus. The situation is trying and uncomfortable. I’ve been there. Yet, God desires that we keep our minds on Him. Jesus is our peace and our calm in the storm. God is our refuge and our strength. God is sovereign, and even when it doesn’t appear like it, He’s always in control. In due time, God will turn your situation around. Be reminded to trust that there is always a greater work that God accomplishes in these moments. God is pleased when we praise Him despite what we’re going through. In this, He is glorified and made known to those around us as He did with the jailer. All because they see you abiding in Christ and the Lord suddenly blesses you out of your situation.

Confession: I will trust my Father and think on His word. I’m going to occupy my mouth with gratitude and praise. When thoughts about my current circumstance come, I will keep thinking on Jesus. He is the God of the suddenly, and His word says I’m blessed. I thank the Father that it’s already done. Hallelujah!

Study: Isaiah 26:3, Psalm 37:4 & 25