Sometimes the greatest breakthroughs and blessings in life come from the simplest changes. A positive change in an attitude, a tone of voice, a look, a perspective, or a habit can transform us and the environment around us.

This is certainly true when it comes to our words. What we say in the face of life circumstances makes a difference. When we choose to speak the right words the right way, we welcome God’s presence, peace and power into our world. And when He shows up, wonderful things happen!

We have a great example of this in the life of the Apostle Paul and his ministry helper, Silas. The story is found in Acts 16. In response to God’s call, Paul and Silas traveled to the Macedonian city of Philippi to share the Gospel. Almost immediately they encountered trouble. Their preaching led to mean-spirited opposition, malicious persecution and unjust incarceration. After being falsely accused, arrested and severely beaten by the authorities, Paul and Silas were placed in shackles and chains and thrown into the worst part of the Philippian prison.

From a natural perspective, this would have been a good time for a pity party. They were suffering horribly for doing God’s work. Most of us would have given into the temptation to grumble and complain about such unfair and painful circumstances. But Paul and Silas chose a different path. Take a look at their response to the situation and the amazing consequences that followed:

Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening. Suddenly, there was a massive earthquake, and the prison was shaken to its foundations. All the doors immediately flew open, and the chains of every prisoner fell off! — Acts 16:25-26 (NLT)

Paul and Silas’ decision to pray and praise God instead of pout about their problems changed everything. With the right words, coming from right hearts, they welcomed God’s presence, peace and power into that dark prison cell. The result was not only a breakthrough, it was a “break out!”

What about you? What are you saying in the face of your challenging situations? Are you a worshiper or a whiner? Are you grateful or are you a grumbler?

Don’t let your circumstances or your spiritual adversary steal your prayer and praise. Follow the example of Paul and Silas — be a worshiper — and watch what God will do!

Pastor Dale

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