Faith in Action(4) - Peter
Faith in Action: Sleeping Through the Storm
Have you ever faced a challenge so daunting that sleep became impossible? Imagine being in Peter’s position, as described vividly in Acts 12:5-17. It was a terrifying time: King Herod had launched relentless persecution against the early Christians. Peter was arrested, imprisoned, and awaited possible execution the very next day. Considering the fate of other disciples who had already been executed, Peter had every reason to fear.
No Way Out—Or So It Seemed
Picture this: Peter, guarded by four heavily armed soldiers—two stationed right next to him, two positioned outside the prison door. The chains tightly bound him, and escape seemed utterly impossible. The stakes were high, and death was a real possibility.
Yet, Peter did something utterly astonishing—he slept!
The Ultimate Act of Faith
Peter’s decision to sleep, despite the imminent threat of execution, reveals an extraordinary depth of faith. How could he rest so peacefully in such a dire circumstance? He had absolute, unwavering confidence in God’s faithfulness. Peter knew something that went beyond human logic: God never fails.
The miracle unfolds spectacularly: an angel enters the prison, illuminating the darkness with divine light. Peter, sound asleep, doesn't even notice the angel's arrival. The angel has to physically strike Peter to wake him! Peter’s profound peace was proof of his resolute faith—he knew God would come through.
Faith: A Peace Beyond Understanding
Do you have that kind of faith? Can you sleep peacefully amid your storms, confident in God’s deliverance? Faith is not just believing—it’s being fully persuaded, trusting wholeheartedly even when the outcome is unseen.
Philippians 4:7 calls this "the peace of God, which transcends all understanding." Peter exemplified this peace perfectly.
A Lesson for Today
Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us powerfully:
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Notice the progression:
Present your situation through prayer.
Include thanksgiving—even before you see the results.
Trust God’s promises completely.
Hebrews 10:23 reassures us further:
"He who promised is faithful."
Your Turn to Act in Faith
Peter’s restful sleep amid life-threatening adversity wasn't passive—it was powerful faith in action. Today, you can choose a similar act of faith. Find scripture that speaks directly to your need, present it boldly to God, and thank Him in advance for His answer.
Will you trust enough to rest peacefully in your own storm? Let Peter’s remarkable example inspire you to deeper faith, confident that the same God who delivered Peter will surely come through for you.
Join us again soon as we uncover more inspiring stories and lessons of faith, encouraging you every step of your journey.
NB: The chains used as the cover image for this blog are a type of handcuff from the Roman period, serving as an example of what was used to chain Peter in prison.
