25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing songs to God as the other prisoners listened. 26 Suddenly, there was a strong earthquake that shook the foundation of the jail. Then all the doors of the jail broke open, and all the prisoners were freed from their chains. Acts 16:25-26 NCV
We don’t have to be physically enslaved to know what it feels like to live in bondage. I’m sure we can each name some kind of lifestyle habit or addiction that has trapped us and strapped us down to the point of feeling hopeless and helpless.
Perhaps you are feeling stuck ~ unable to see any light at the end of the long, dark tunnel. Maybe this tunnel has been a journey that has lasted for longer than you can remember. And it’s even possible that you’ve cried out to GOD, but you haven’t heard from Him, especially in recent times. You may have even considered throwing in the towel and acquiescing to “this is just how it’s going to be … it is what it is.”
If that is your present situation, I want you to know that I am so, so sorry you are going through all of this, Friend. I know it is painful beyond description. I know what it’s like to not have anyone around to understand or release your anxiety to. The weight is heavy and overwhelming.
But GOD …
18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted,
and he saves those whose spirits have been crushed. Psalm 34:18 NCV
He never left you. Only He knows what is on the horizon for you and why He has determined it in your best interest to cause you to wait. But your breakthrough is on the way, Sweet Friend ~ it’s coming. Hold on to the Hand of Hope.
The apostle Paul and Silas were beaten and imprisoned for spreading the gospel. Locked up in a dungeon type of cell with shackles on their feet, they were guarded by soldiers. It was about midnight ~ that darkest hour ~ when they began to praise and worship GOD out loud. Imagine that, they’re bloody, bruised, chained down and they’re singing praises. I honestly doubt that I would have that kind of mindset if I were in that situation. And yet, their faith caused them to press in.
And that’s when the Lord miraculously intervened. They didn’t make their situation about them ~ they made it about Him. To the point other prisoners were listening. To the point the Roman soldier humbled himself and received salvation.
It’s possible that the Lord wants us to see beyond our circumstances so that we can clearly see Him at the center of our situation ~ and in full control.
Take a praise break for a handful of minutes and just let this song motivate, inspire, and redirect your focus. It ministered to me, and I pray that it does the same for you.
I love you to Heaven and Back, Girlfriend ~
LindaRJohnson, TitusTwo Visionary
*Thank you to Tasha Layton | Chris Brown | Elevation Worship for this.
Titus Two 