Despite The Circumstance

Introductory thought: Worship is more than singing praise; it is a highly underappreciated and unrealized power.

Question 1: Read Acts 16:18-24. Pastor Tim talked about how Paul and Silas didn’t do wrong; they set a girl free from demon possession. Yet they were stripped, beaten, and thrown in prison. Pastor Tim remarked, “They [Paul and Silas] had to be disillusioned.” Have you ever done something you thought would be for the good, and then have negative consequences develop because of it? If comfortable, share about that experience.

Question 2: In Acts 16:25, it reads, “But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God…” (NKJV). Pastor Tim exclaimed, “But look what they did… they worshiped!” He continued by saying that even though we don’t understand where we are, we still trust Him for He is worthy. Talk about a time you didn’t understand the place where you were. Did you respond in worship? If you are currently in that place, turn to God and truly worship Him.

Question 3: Pastor Tim pointed out that in verse 26, the worst of what Paul and Silas experienced was transformed. Certain death became certain life. Pastor Tim said that when we worship in the dark, in utter hopelessness, God will use our praise to display His power. Identify something you formerly deemed hopeless but now is a source of God’s power, restoration, and grace.

Question 4: Pastor Tim directed us to consider our own “prison.” He added that when life becomes Hellish and everything seems impossible, and you worship amidst these places, God will show up. Name your current “prison.” Be honest with yourself in answering this: Will you worship anyway?

Wrap-Up Thought: Choose to trust Him even when you can’t see.