So far, in the book of Acts, we have seen the Christian movement spread despite vehement opposition. The Jews had tried to eradicate the movement but had failed miserably as even the chief persecutor, Saul, had himself become a convert. Now in chapter 12 the reigning King of Judea himself will try to squash the Christian movement. He imprisons Peter, but Peter is subsequently set free by an angel. The King, Herod, is then suddenly cut down by a fatal disease. Peter’s escape and Herod’s death were to be a sign to God’s people; a sign that nothing can impede the purpose of God. Jesus said that the gates of hell would not prevail against the advance of his church (Matthew 16:18). So it was that the gates of the prison did not prevail against Peter. Those things which would seem to impede God’s purpose will only feed into it. We have seen that in the story so far. It also applies to each of us inasmuch as we give our lives to God’s Kingdom. If you pursue the life that you were made for, not only will it suit you better, not only will all your potential be realised, but nothing will be able to impede you. Things that seem to be obstacles will become opportunities for God to work in greater ways. So many people suffer from the deep disappointment of frustrated ambitions. But false hopes should be dashed. Hope that is grounded in the purpose of God, however, cannot be frustrated ultimately. You will experience opposition but nothing can frustrate the plan of God.
Commit yourself to God’s purpose for you and ask him to guide you in his ways.
Read Acts 12
