DIVINE VISITATION

Divine visitation is when an event is beyond scientific, empirical, and technological realms. It is a supernatural, superhuman, supernormal, miraculous, unbelievable, fabulous, unexplainable events. It can not be compared to recent technological advancements and innovations like Artificial Intelligence and breakthroughs in science and medicine. Romans 11:33 says “How    unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!”. Acts 12:5-11 provides us with a vivid illustration of divine visitation in the life of Peter. D – Deliverance, I – Intercession, V – Vision, I – Illumination,  N – Nurture, E – Encouragement.

Challenges of Peter Acts 12:5-6. Psalm 34:19. John 16:33. Hebrew 12:1

In these verses, we find Peter facing severe challenges. He’s imprisoned by Herod, awaiting a grim fate. This situation represents the challenges we encounter in lifetimes of adversity, persecution, or seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Peter’s predicament reminds us that difficulties are inevitable, but they don’t have the final say in our lives. Examples abound of men and women who faced challenges in life. Either you are Christians or not, life’s woes must betide.

Cloud of Witnesses Hebrew 12:1-2

Many Old and New Testament saints faced different problems and obstacles in their journey of life.  Abraham and Sarah were childless for many years, and it was a source of shame. Genesis 15:2-3. Joseph endured betrayal and injustice when his brothers sold him into slavery, and he was later falsely accused and imprisoned in Egypt. Genesis 37:23-24. The children of Israel faced the challenge of being pursued by the Egyptian army with the Red Sea blocking their escape, leaving them in a seemingly impossible situation. Exodus 14:10. The Israelites faced the challenge of hunger and thirst in the wilderness after leaving Egypt. Exodus 16:2-3.  Daniel was thrown into the lions’ den. Daniel 6:16-24. Job experienced immense suffering, losing his wealth, children, and health, while enduring the agony of physical afflictions and the accusations of his friends. Job 2:7. The widow of Nain faced the challenge of mourning the death of her only son, facing both emotional and financial hardship as a widow. Luke 7:12. Paul was chief of sinners and was saved. 1 Timothy 1:15.

Calculated Response of the Church Acts 12:5b. Psalms 34: 17-18.

Despite their impossible circumstances, situations, the church responds fervently through prayer. They gather together, lifting their voices to God on Peter’s behalf. This response underscores the power of corporate prayer and community support during times of crisis. The unity of the church in prayer serves as a catalyst for divine intervention. James 5:16b. “Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” “…pompous and elaborate preparations-’four quaternions of soldiers’- four times four is sixteen-sixteen soldiers, two chains, three gates with guards at each of them, Herod’s grim determination, the people’s malicious expectation….”. The few Apostles had prayer and Jesus Christ. Brethren, what do you have? Psalms 18: 3-50. The church prayed earnestly, fervently, agonisingly, unitedly and prevailingly. They prayed with no choice. No plan B. They prayed all.

Critical steps to Enjoy Divine Visitation Acts 12:7, 10-11. Jeremiah 33:3

God responds to the prayers of the church by sending an angel to rescue Peter. The angel leads Peter out of prison, guiding him to freedom. This divine intervention demonstrates God’s faithfulness to His promises and His ability to deliver His people from any situation. To experience divine visitation, we must cultivate a life of faith, prayer, and obedience. Are you born again? Exodus 14:14. Are you obedient to God? Do you pray? Are you on fire for Christ? Do you evangelise?