As we look at the next chapter we see where persecution continues and even intensifies, coming from King Herod in particular. Herod has James killed and puts Peter in prison. As these attacks occurred the church continued in prayer, praise God. However, when the prayers were answered they were not ready to see God answer. For instance as Peter was in prison with guards on both sides and outside the gate an angel delivered him from the imprisonment and impending execution. After his release Peter went to the home of Mary, the mother of John Mark. As a young woman answered the knock at the door of Peter the others in the room praying said, "You're crazy!...It's his angel!". Why is it that we pray asking God for help, asking Him for a miracle, or seeking His intercession yet never prepare for God to respond to our supplications. Why should God answer when we ask but do not have the sufficient faith to prepare for His response. If we ask, let us expect God to answer if we are praying in His will.
Toward the end of the chapter we see the final demise of Herod. If it were not enough for Herod to persecute God's people he now begins to act as if he were a god. A dispute had arisen between Herod and the Tyrians and Sidonians. The people sought favor form Herod and asked for peace. As Herod sat on the throne in his royal attire he gave an oracle. At that point "the people began to shout, 'It's the voice of a god and not of a man!'". The result was an angel of God struck him because "he did not give the glory to God, and he became infected with worms and died.". Beware when we begin to claim glory which should be attributed to God.
Lessons to Learn:
1. When we pray asking for God's help, get ready for Him to answer. Don't just sit there.
2. It is a dangerous thing to assume any praise or glory intended for God.
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