January 20, 2011 - Acts 16:25

“About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.” Acts 16:25.
Paul and Silas were arrested in Philippi and charged with being disruptive to the Roman lifestyle in the city. The magistrate had Paul and Silas stripped and beaten severally before putting them in prison. Instead of grumbling about their situation, Paul and Silas focused on their connection with the living God by praying and singing to Him. There were other people in prison with them, and they were paying close attention to what Paul and Silas were doing.
I can only imagine what it would be like to be arrested, severely beaten, and thrown into prison because of my stand of faith in Jesus. Knowing me, I would be really upset, angry and depressed all at the same time! I would be beside myself with emotion. I would hope that I would turn to prayer in that time, but I’m not convinced. I judge this by reviewing how I have handled adversity. I must say that I am getting better, yet I am aware of the emotions that well up inside. I would say things like, “Why me?” or “They shouldn’t have treated me this way!” or “I got a raw deal here!” Needless to say, I would most likely have a different reaction than Paul and Silas. And look who was watching their every move. How they acted during adverse conditions would affect how the other prisoners would respond to Paul and Silas’ words of hope in Jesus.
Questions to consider: How do you respond/react to adversity? Is how you act consistent with the words that you speak? What steps could you take to help you respond to adversity in a positive, God-honoring way?
Prayer: Father, I am amazed at Paul and Silas’ desire and ability to praise You in all situations in life. Help me to have a heart that is so focused on You that I could respond in all situations in similar ways, especially in adversity. Amen.