A Clay Jar

Encouraging, comforting, and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory. (1 Thess. 2:12 NIV)

Worship in Times of Suffering

Acts 16:25

Published on:

Last Updated on:

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.

Acts 16:25 NIV

In this passage, Paul and Silas had cast a fortune-telling spirit out of a young slave girl. Rather than being commended for their actions, they were beaten, thrown into prison, and placed into stocks. If there was ever a time to be discouraged and feel bad, that would be it.

But what did they do? They did not have a pity party. Instead, in their time of suffering, they spent the night in worship, praying to God and singing hymns. And not quietly, either. All of the other prisoners were listening to them. This is very much in line with what the apostles did when beaten by the Sanhedrin in Acts 5:40-41. After the beating, they left “rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for Jesus.

Responding to Suffering

And what an example they set for us today. In the US, we seldom really suffer for our faith. At worst, we are usually only inconvenienced. But rather than complain because someone is depriving me of my “rights” as a Christian, I should rejoice. Now that doesn’t mean I should go looking for trouble. But when it comes, I should be thankful for the privilege of suffering for my Lord (Phil. 1:29).

The other significant thing about this passage, that I often overlook, concerns their fellow prisoners. They were paying attention to what was going on with Paul and Silas. While nothing is said about their reaction, I think it is safe to assume that it made an impact on many of them. Something was different about these two guys, something that would allow them to worship where others would have complained. Other people are watching my reaction to the challenges I face. Does my worship in a time of suffering glorify God, and draw others to him?

Additional Related Posts

If you have found value in this post, please consider sharing it with your friends.

Subscribe to A Clay Jar

If you have found value in this post, please consider subscribing to A Clay Jar so that you don't miss any other posts. 

Ed Jarrett

Just an old clay jar that God continues to see fit to use in his kingdom's work. I am retired, married with 2 children, and 4 grandchildren. I have followed Jesus for many years. And I love to share what He has given me from His word.

A Note to Readers

The views expressed here are solely mine and do not necessarily reflect those of any other person, group, or organization. While I believe they reflect the teachings of the Bible, I am a fallible human and subject to misunderstanding. Please feel free to leave any comments or questions about this post in the comments section below. I am always interested in your feedback.

2 thoughts on “Worship in Times of Suffering – Acts 16:25”

Leave a Comment