Acts 12:16 “But Peter continued knocking; and when they had opened the door, they saw him and were amazed.”

DID I PRAY THAT?

Do you know the story? Peter had been arrested and imprisoned. An angel sets him free and Peter shows up at the door where the believers are praying, probably for his freedom. So what do they do? They stand there amazed! They couldn’t believe that what they were praying for had happened! Aren’t we the same?

How many times have you prayed for something and then are amazed or surprised when it happens? Have you ever prayed for rain and then not carry an umbrella? Listen folks, if you are praying for something, expect it.

TEACHING MOMENT

We need our children to learn to believe their prayers are being heard and answered. Now sometimes the answer we get is not exactly what WE were hoping for but it is usually for our best. How can you as a parent teach your child to trust the Lord to answer prayers?

The best way I know is to pray with them and then let them know when you get an answer. Sometimes that prayer is answered quickly. Other times it takes a while. I have known families who have prayed for an adoptive child and it happened quickly. Others…well…it took a while. But they still celebrated the answered prayer in whatever form the answer took.

What are some things you as a family are praying for right now? Write them down on the frig and watch what God does. Pray with your children for their desires. Watch how God speaks to them through their prayers.

But let me challenge you in one thing. The next time you pray for something and it happens, don’t be surprised. Don’t be amazed! Praise the amazing God, but don’t be amazed that He answered.