The Jerusalem church prayed for God’s power in their lives. They prayed very specifically too. Yes, if I want God to come to my church, I must prepare my heart. I must give glory to God. I must listen intently to His Word. I must eliminate distractions so that I can focus. The Jerusalem church reveals another step in this process…

Step #5 – I must pray for God’s power in my life

The Jerusalem church in Acts 4 asked God to “look on their threats.” Obviously when they were “severely threaten[ed]” in verse 17, they took it seriously. They weren’t overly afraid but needed God’s assurance.

They asked God to “grant unto thy servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word.” They knew that in the flesh it was easy to be quiet about God. They needed a Spirit-given, holy “boldness” in order to openly proclaim Christ. We still need that today.

They asked God to stretch out His hand to “heal” that He might perform “signs and wonders.” They knew the power was not in them, but from God and asked Him to continue to give it.

They asked “through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.” Jesus Himself said on numerous occasions, “whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.” We should pray in celebration for all that God has done; pray for capability to be more bold in our witness; and pray for confidence not cowardice in our daily walk.