Watchful Praise

Acts 16:23-26 … After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. Upon receiving such orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody’s chains came loose.

Remember Paul and Silas? Ever wonder why they were praying and singing near midnight? After a long day, being beaten and thrown in prison why would they do this? Consider Psalm 119 – they knew this psalm.

Psalm 119:60-62 … I made haste, and did not delay to keep Your commandments. Though the wicked bind me with ropes, I will not forget your law. At midnight I will rise to give thanks to You, because of Your righteous judgments.

The word for give thanks is yadah[03034] and it means to give thanks, laud, praise, worship, to confess the name of God with extended hands. Praying and singing near midnight was a way to keep alert and declare their faith{the other prisoners were listening to them}.

Colossians 4:2 BBE … Give yourselves to prayer at all times, keeping watch with praise;

The word for watch is gregoreuo[1127] meaning to keep awake, alert, vigilant.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 … Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Philippians 4:6-7 … Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God, and the peace of God; which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Related:
Watchful Thanksgiving{article}
Midnight Praise

Tags: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing, At midnight I will rise to give thanks to You, Be Watchful, Colossians 4:2, Midnight Praise, Philippians 4:6-7, pray without ceasing in everything give thanks, Psalm 119:60-62, Thanksgiving