Paul and Silas’ resolve to “Be still and know that I am God” is legendary! Imagine being stripped and beaten by rods for spreading the Good News of Jesus and then to be put into prison and tied to a pole that is usually set for burning. Can you even imagine yourself in this situation? Wouldn’t we be knocked out and overcome with fear after being put through such an ordeal? Would praise arise from our hearts? This is not normal behaviour. And yet, this is what Paul and Silas did. Their hearts were at peace that they were able to have an attitude of praise. Romans 15:13 says “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope, by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Imagine further, you are in a prison with criminals and yet not one of them left their cell when the locks opened supernaturally! We can only assume, this overflow of hope had an effect on the criminals as well. What awesome power the display of trusting God and being in praise and worship can accomplish!

Prayer: Abba Father, may we have your grace to burst into songs of praise as a lifestyle choice. Amen.