Praise Your Way Out

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Acts 16:16-40 records a remarkable story of Paul and Silas in a Philippian jail. They were unjustly arrested, beaten, and thrown into the inner prison with their feet in stocks. They had every reason to despair and to feel hopeless. Instead, they had a prayer meeting and concert at midnight and dedicated their songs to God. Their worship was for real! As they sang songs of praise, they were heard by the other prisoners. Suddenly, an earthquake shook the prison, opening the doors and loosening everyone’s chains.

The other prisoners were listening, and when the miracle occurred, none of them fled the scene. The jailer was amazed that all of the prisoners were still there and asked, “What must I do to be saved?” That same night, he and his entire household placed their trust in Christ and were baptized. What the devil meant for evil, God turned around for good. Paul and Silas' imprisonment led to many people being saved and God receiving the glory.

This passage teaches us that praise should not be limited to times of happiness, comfort, or victory. Genuine praise arises even when circumstances are dark, painful, and uncertain. I can recall one day when I stayed up all night praising, praying, and worshipping God. It wasn’t because everything was going well. In fact, all hell was breaking loose, but I still had praise in me. It was just me and the Lord! Paul and Silas’ worship shifted the atmosphere, and God’s power was made manifest in their situation. Their praise transformed their circumstances, and it can do the same for us.

It’s easy to complain, reason, and try to fight our way out of trials instead of praising our way out. Praise reminds us of who God is, not just what He can do. It takes our eyes off the chains and onto the Chain Breaker. Praise can shake foundations, open doors, and bring freedom, not just for us, but for those who are aware of our circumstances.

Do you find yourself in a midnight hour situation? Praise your way out! When we choose to worship instead of worry, we not only shift our perspective but also invite God’s presence into the situation. God can turn our prison into a platform and our pain into power. Praise is the key that opens the door to His presence, even in the darkest of times.

Don’t you dare wait until your situation is resolved to give thanks. Confuse the enemy who thought he had you defeated, and praise God in advance. When you begin to praise, doors will open, chains will fall, the devil will be defeated, and God will get the glory. What are you waiting for? Praise your way out!

Elder Shirley Freeman