Today’s Key Scripture (all references NKJV unless otherwise noted:  

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 16:26, KJV 

In the city of Philippi, Paul and Silas were arrested for preaching the message of Christ. They were brought before the magistrates, who “tore off their clothes and commanded them to be beaten with rods. And when they had laid many stripes on them, they threw them into prison” (Acts 16:22-23). 

With chains tied to their feet, “at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God” (verse 25). The Lord not only heard their prayers and worship, but He moved heaven and earth on their behalf. 

The Old Testament documents the fact that when God’s people did not pray, they were subjugated and taken away like prisoners. On their journey, “the Assyrians oppressed them without cause” (Isaiah 52:4). God looked down and said, “Now therefore, what have I here . . . that my people is taken away for nought? They that rule over them make them to howl” (verse 5). 

The deeper dimension of spending time with God Almighty brings freedom!

Are you ready for liberty rather than bondage, for deliverance rather than slavery, for joy rather than tears?  Then move into the marvelous presence of the Savior. “Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty” (2 Corinthians 3:17).

A Prayer for Today: 

God of all mercy, thank You for helping me to grow as I spend more and more time in Your presence. I ask You today for Your direction all the days of my life. I thank You for the power of forgiveness so that I can release all hurts to You, forgiving others as You have forgiven me. Help me walk in righteousness, peace, and joy, reflecting Your love to others. Help me speak hope, health, and peace wherever I go as I seek to reflect Your light. I pray all this in the Name above all names, Amen!