“About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.  Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose.  The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped.  But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!”  The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas.  He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” (Acts 16:25-30)

     The Roman authorities had Paul and Silas put in prison.  Imagine being wrongfully thrown in prison, chained up, yet finding reasons to give praise and sing hymns to God!  But Paul and Silas knew that God had not changed, even though their circumstances had changed. 

     Paul and Silas’ situation was a part of a much larger plan.  Ultimately, it was used to introduce the prisoners and guards to Jesus.  We may be faced with events which make us feel that life is unfair, yet when our faith in Jesus shines through, people who need the Lord will see that there is a God who is seeking us and asking us to welcome him into our lives.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for the joy of salvation.  When I am faced with tough situations, I ask that I will not blame you, but instead give you praise for being a God who never changes and your love remains forever.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.