Bold Prayers at Christmas: Lessons from Acts 4 That Still Matter Today

 “On their release, Peter and John went back to their own people and reported all that the chief priests and the leaders had said to them. When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God.”

Acts 4:23-24a

Dear Friends,

Christmas is a time in our culture when many people ask for things. Children especially are encouraged to tell Santa what they hope to find under the tree on the big day, trusting that their wishes will be granted, and hoping they won’t be disappointed.

Christmas Wish Lists and Unexpected Gifts

This month, Dad had the opportunity to help make Christmas joyful for several children in our community. He and Nathan, along with the Xenia Rotary Club, volunteered at an evening auction to raise money for children from families with limited incomes. After the auction, Rotary members divided the children’s wish lists and used the proceeds to purchase gifts to be delivered just in time for Christmas.

As Dad and I wrapped the gifts, I was struck by the variety of requests. Toys, shoes, clothing, snacks, and other small treasures filled our kitchen counter as we cut paper and taped bows into place. There will be some very happy children on Christmas morning.

When Our Prayers Become Wish Lists

Children, however, are not the only ones who have wish lists.

As Christians, we view prayer as an opportunity to bring our requests before God. He does hear us, and He delights in giving good gifts to His children. Yet often we ask for things that, though well-intentioned, may not be what we most need for spiritual growth. Still, Scripture shows us there are certain bold prayers in difficult circumstances that God is always pleased to answer.

Bold Prayers in Difficult Circumstances

The believers in Acts 4 prayed those kinds of bold prayers.

After Peter and John were imprisoned for healing a lame man and proclaiming Jesus, the church gathered to pray. Their response to persecution is surprising. Rather than asking for protection from the authorities or judgment upon their enemies, they asked for something far greater.

Together, they raised their voices in worship, acknowledging God’s sovereignty over all events. They praised Him as Creator of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them. They recognized the fulfillment of prophecy spoken through King David – that the nations would rage and the rulers would rise up against the Lord and His Anointed One. They openly confessed that Herod, Pontius Pilate, the Gentiles, and the people of Israel had fulfilled God’s sovereign plan by crucifying Jesus.

Only then did they present their requests.

A Surprising Prayer from the Early Church

They prayed:

“Lord, consider their threats and enable Your servants to speak Your word with great boldness. Stretch out Your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of Your holy servant Jesus.”

The Powerful Answer God Gave

God answered in a powerful way. As the final words of their prayers were spoken, the place where they were gathered began to shake. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly just as they had asked.

What remarkable gifts flowed from their bold prayers!

What Do We Truly Desire This Christmas?

As we move through the Christmas season with all its giving and receiving, it’s worth pausing to consider what we truly desire. Trinkets, toys, and even meaningful gifts eventually fade – but what lasting spiritual value do they hold?

My wish for you is this: that God would make Himself known to you in a way that changes your life. May you desire, like the believers in Acts, faith that trusts Him fully and courage to speak His word boldly – no matter the circumstances you face.

Love,

Mama

If this message encouraged you, I’d love to hear from you. Send me a message at [email protected], and please consider sharing this post with someone who could use hope and courage this Christmas season.