Read Acts 15-19 Pauls Second Missionarys Journey

But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyones chains were loosed. (Acts 16:25-26 NKJV)

The providence of God. The Holy Spirit directed Paul and Silas to Philippi instead of Asia Minor. The deliverance of the demoniac and salvation of Lydia resulted in their imprisoned. That's the work, the enemy opposed. Did they make a mistake? Was this an unfortunate turn of event? No, it is the providence of God.

The praise of Paul and Silas. At midnight while in prison, they chose to pray and sing hymns to God. They were singing when others would have complained. The people couldn't understand how they could ever rejoice; but listened to what they were singing. When faced with injustice or being hurt there's a choice to make how one response. Praise brings liberty and witness.

The power of God. While they were praising God; the Lord send an earthquake. First the foundations were shaken, second, all the doors were opened and finally everyone's chains were loosened. The midnight experience for Paul and Silas was one of Gods presence and power.

The purpose of the Gospel. It brings salvation even to the jailer and his family saved (Acts 16:25-34). So, the jailer believed in Jesus and he and his entire family were baptized into Christ that very night. Paul looked back without regrets as he wrote subsequently, But even after we had suffered before and were spitefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God in much conflict. (1Thessalonians 2:2)

Go where you are sent. It's not the place matter but wherever God sent. Higher hands are leading me even though it is bleak. Stay where you are placed (1Cor. 4:17). Blossom where you are not questioning "what if?" Give what you got. It's true what in daylight is true in midnight. Chuck Calson through prison gave birth to prison ministry. God still turned the midnight hour of pain to joy and suffering to salvation through the praises of His people.

Prayer: LORD, You are worthy of praise. Let my lips continually declare You in praise. l am able by the power of Your Holy Spirit to live praising You is breaking every bondage. Amen.

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