Listen to this devotion
Rhoda — Unexpected, Unbelievable Joy
Rhoda’s Story: Acts 12:1–17
In the Word
And when he [Peter] knocked at the door of the gateway, a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer. Recognizing Peter’s voice, in her joy she did not open the gate but ran in and reported that Peter was standing at the gate (Acts 12:13–14).
Of the Word
Rhoda was given the scary-but-important task of guarding the house gate on a dark night. King Herod had already killed James. Peter was in jail. Identities of Jesus’ followers were probably known. Who would be caught next?
While others prayed, Rhoda guarded the gate. Unbeknownst to them, God’s angel had released Peter, who then made his way to Mary’s house. Rhoda heard his knock and recognized his voice. But she was so overcome with joy that she left the poor man standing outside in the dark! She couldn’t believe that prayers had been answered.
Are we ever surprised at God’s answers? Do we shout for joy but forget to praise the One who provided for us? Our loving God wants us to bring our needs to Him, and He wants us to honor Him with our thanks. “… call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me” (Psalm 50:15).
Walking with my Lord
Dear Lord, You always work for my good. Thank You for hearing and answering my prayers. Help me recognize Your surprises as special blessings. Forgive my failure to see Your answers, and fill my heart with thanksgiving. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Mustard Seed: Daughters of the King. Marcia Gomulka and Myrna Lou Meyer, authors. 30/34 ©2013 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version Copyright ©2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers.
