CURRENT RADIO SERIES Best of 2018   CURRENT TV SERIES Lifeworks

“So Peter was kept in prison, but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church.” —Acts 12:5 What an amazing story!  Peter is put in prison by this cruel King Herod after the death of James, the Apostle of the Lord Jesus and the brother of John.  Sixteen guards are placed upon him; an iron gate is securely fastened; and every door seemed to be shut. The church was about to receive a potential deathblow, because their de facto leader, Simon Peter, was facing death and execution.  Every door seemed shut.  The church had no ability to appeal to Caesar or to Herod. They didn’t politic, they didn’t put placards out and march around the jail; but rather they got on their faces before God and they prayed. Because every door was shut to them save one door, and that was the open door of heaven in prayer. And they began to pray and God answered their prayer. Some of you may find yourself in a prison.  You may find yourself facing a dead-end or a closed door.  You may find yourself chained and bound by your past and circumstances in your life today.  And it seems there’s no way! But we’ve learned that God will make a way, when there seems to be no way.  And God made a way for Peter, and God will make a way for you, as you believe Him in prayer. It’s been said that if you’re swept off your feet, get on your knees! Friday, December 7, 2018 Meant for Everyone by Dr. Paul Chappell “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” Luke 2:8–10 One of the most expensive and exclusive products in the world is Clive Christian No. 1 Imperial Majesty Perfume. The perfume comes in a special bottle that features 18 carat gold and a five carat diamond. The scent comes from a combination of vanilla, roses, cinnamon, jasmine, and other ingredients not made public. The perfume sells for more than $12,700 per ounce. It is not meant for everyone, but only those with the means to indulge in such a luxury item. There are many things in our world which are off-limits to all but a favored few people. But when God sent His Son, He provided the gift of salvation without restriction as to age, race, gender, class, wealth, health, or any other condition. The Good News is meant to be spread “to all people.” All are included without limitation. “In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink” (John 7:37). After the shepherds went to Bethlehem and saw that Jesus was born just as the angels said, they did not keep the news to themselves. “And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child” (Luke 2:17). Those of us who have received the gift of salvation by the gift of God’s Son have an obligation to share that message with others. It is meant for all, but they will not hear unless someone tells them. Today’s Growth Principle:  The Christmas story is not just to be enjoyed and remembered. It is also to be shared. He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time. 2 Timothy 1:9