Unshackled

UNSHACKLED

By: Julie Souza Bradley Lilly

“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 everyone’s chains came loose.” – Acts‬ ‭16:25-26‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Miracles happen in prison.  They happen every day. There is no place on earth beyond His reach to save; no shackles so strong that He cannot loose them.

We all have those we pray for who find themselves imprisoned—whether a physical prison or one constructed of fear, addiction, bitterness or unbelief.  Even we ourselves are not beyond erecting prisons of our own, where we are enslaved to destructive behaviors, defeated thoughts and unrealized futures.  The walls restrain us from walking in freedom and separate us from the embrace of those beyond our walls who pray.

Does your heart weep for a loved one who is imprisoned?  Are you yourself held in a prison with unseen walls?

Beloved, let’s pray!  But even more, let’s take counsel from Paul and Silas.  In the darkness of midnight, let’s exchange our worried and nervous prayers, for worship to our God who is ABLE—our God who will stop at nothing to reach us.

Father, we lift up our lives and those for whom we pray.  Where You have handed us the keys to our freedom, give us the wisdom and strength to use them.  Where we are held against our will, we declare our belief in Your power to save us.

Lord, we worship You! Truly nothing is too difficult for You!  Your heart is moved with compassion and Your hand moves in great power!  We sing of Your heart of mercy, Your love and marvelous ways.  We trust in Your goodness, timing and wisdom. Unlock our prison doors! Strengthen us to walk in unshackled freedom.  We contend for Your move and thank You in advance of its appearing.  To You, Lord, be the glory!  For who the Son sets free is free indeed (John 8:36)! In Jesus’ Name ❤️

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