I don’t know how many times I’ve read Acts 12 and marveled at the angel opening prison doors while the people were praying.  Peter walked right out of there a free man.  As I was reading it this time around, I saw something I don’t think I’ve ever seen before, and I wonder how in the world I could have missed it.  

And now I know for certain that the Lord has sent his angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the Jewish people.  – Acts 12:11

I have read the Old Testament.  God parted waters, put bread on the ground every morning, and did many other great and mighty wonders.  But these things did not change the hearts of the people.  They were amazed, but they weren’t changed.

In Acts 12, I see that the miracle changed Peter’s heart.  He was free from expectation.  I imagine that with James, the brother of John being executed at the beginning of the chapter, Peter knew his time was up.  I don’t think he minded at all, but he thought this was the end of the road.  When he stepped out of that prison, he knew that God truly was in control, and that he was free to live for Him and Him only.  What could Herod, the Jewish people, or any mere mortals do to him?

Early this year, I felt God like never before.  I’ve felt Him many times and it led me to do what I thought I was supposed to do for a little while.  This time is different.  I don’t have to meet people’s expectations anymore.  So far, I’ve been able to simply walk in obedience with God.  He has given me so many indicators that He has given me the grace, mercy, and power of the Holy Spirit to walk in His ways.  I don’t walk, nor talk like I used to.  I can forgive and even pray for those who have hurt me the most.  Even now, my mind and my flesh want to think this is all temporary and will end soon enough.  But this morning, I think I’ll believe that God is who He says He is and can do what He says He can do.

Lord, it is so easy to forget the miracle of all miracles.  When a man or woman comes to You and they no longer love the sin that they once loved, You have performed the impossible.  You took our sin on the cross.  You said it is done.  What was done?  All that needed to be completed for us to walk in Your ways, to no longer conform to the pattern of this world, and to be able to live by the Spirit and not expectations.  I want this for my own life.  I already see it happening, yet I get afraid that I’ll mess it all up.  So often, I don’t even live up to my own expectations.  Help all who read today to follow You day by day, hour by hour, and moment by moment.  Make us disciples.

Moment by moment I’m kept in His love

Moment by moment I’ve life from above

Looking to Jesus till glory doth shine

Moment by moment O Lord I am thine.

Amen