“Constant prayer was offered to God for [Peter] by the church. (v.5)
Chapter 12 describes a situation in which Peter's odds of survival were slim and none. He was, "bound with two chains between two soldiers" while others guarded the door of a prison (v.6). King Herod had already executed James, one of Jesus' closest followers, and he had the same fate in mind for Peter (v.1-3). Yet God's plan for Peter included a miraculous deliverance, one that even those who were interceding for him found hard to believe (v.11-13)
God can and does operate outside of human understanding. How? Through His omnipotent power. The One who loves us and gave Himself for us is in charge of our lives. In both ordinary circumstances and impossible situations, God can reveal His power. Whether we are showered with success or sustained in sorrow, He is with us.
I have both seen and experienced the miraculous power of prayer both in my life and the lives of others. Prayer is powerful and we are told in scripture that, "The Lord is near to all who call upon His name, to all who call on Him in truth" (Psalm 145:18). Therefore, when we pray, let us be confident that God hears us, and "is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think" (Eph. 3:20). Then give the glory to God when it occurs.
The Truth: "The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much." (James 5:16)
