And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness (Acts 4:31).
Often, we say God’s Spirit is God’s answer and many don’t understand it. When we pray, God answers, and His answer is the Spirit. For example, in Acts chapter 4, following the healing of the lame man in chapter 3, the Jewish leaders were enraged against the apostles. They commanded Peter and John not to preach or teach in the Name of Jesus.
But the apostles stood their ground, declaring, “For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20). After further threats, the authorities found no basis to punish them and let them go. The Bible says in Acts 4:23, “And being let go, they went to their own company….” By this time, many had already received salvation, and the Christians gathered together in unity.
When they heard what had happened, they lifted their voices in prayer to God. Their prayer was fervent. They acknowledged God’s sovereignty and asked, “And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word” (Acts 4:29). God’s response was beyond their expectations. Our opening verse says, “And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.”
God’s answer was the Spirit! He filled them with the Spirit and the result was them speaking the Word with boldness, healing the sick and casting out devils. In verse 33, we’re specifically told, “And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.” Blessed be God!
The disciples prayed for boldness and God filled them with His Spirit. The answer wasn’t just a change in their situation but the impartation of the Spirit who enabled them to proclaim the Word with great power. This is what happens every time we pray; the Spirit is the answer. He fills us, strengthens us and empowers us to accomplish His will. Hallelujah!
Prayer / Confession
I’m filled with the Spirit, empowered to speak the Word with boldness and to manifest the glory of God everywhere. I walk in the consciousness of God’s divine presence, knowing that through the Spirit, I have everything I need to fulfil my purpose, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Further study
Acts 4:31 NIV; John 14:16-17; Zechariah 4:6; Acts 2:17-18
1-year bible reading plan
Acts 6:1-15; 2 Chronicles 26-28
2-year bible reading plan
Luke 1:67-80; Deuteronomy 14
