“But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished” (Acts 12:16).

Dr. Luke provides information for us about the persecution that came upon the believers under Herod the King in Acts 12. Not only was James killed, but Peter was imprisoned. According to Acts 12:5, the church assembled and earnestly prayed to the Lord for Peter’s release. It was intense prayer. It was fervent prayer. God miraculously answered and delivered Peter. Now we find the great answer to prayer standing at the door and knocking to gain entrance. The young girl Rhoda answers the knock and recognizes Peter’s voice. She immediately runs back to the prayer meeting and declares that Peter is standing at the door. It has always been fascinating to me that the same people who were earnestly praying for Peter’s release told Rhoda that she was crazy (12:15). I have told congregations over the years that it was easier for Peter to be delivered from prison than to break into prayer meeting! I am not being harsh with the early disciples. There have been times that I have prayed about certain situations and to my shame; I will acknowledge that when God answered I was surprised. Has this ever happened to you? Here is a good lesson for us today. When we pray, we must be ready for God’s answer.

For today: The answer to your prayers will come in the form of a yes, no, or wait and trust Me. Be ready to discover God’s answer.