Divine Interruptions: Trusting God's Power and Peace
Summary
There is something powerful about the name of Jesus—a name that stands above every problem, every disease, every circumstance, and every grief. In times of trouble, when we feel overwhelmed or uncertain, we are reminded that God truly cares for us. Even when we, like the disciples in the storm, wonder if Jesus sees or cares about our struggles, he responds not just with words, but with action—bringing peace into the very situations that threaten to undo us. When we are honest with God and bring our burdens to him, we open ourselves to receive that same peace.
We are called to be a community that prays for one another, that lifts each other up in times of need, and that welcomes new members into the family of faith. Our fellowship is not just a formality, but a spiritual bond that strengthens us for the journey ahead. As we celebrate new members, milestones, and the achievements of our youth, we are reminded that God is still adding to his church and working through each of us.
Turning to Acts 12, we see how God’s power can interrupt even the most carefully laid plans of the enemy. Herod had every intention to destroy Peter, just as he had done with James, but God intervened. The church’s fervent prayers created space for God’s providence to work, showing us that when we intentionally invite God into our predicaments, his purpose can override any evil intention. The delays and pauses in our lives are not wasted; they are opportunities for God to bring peace and prepare us for deliverance.
We must learn to be patient in the pause, trusting that God is working even when we cannot see it. There is power in proximity—being connected to a praying community that intercedes for us when we are too weak to pray for ourselves. And we must remember God’s pattern of protection, especially as we come to the Lord’s Table and recall the blood of Jesus that covers and delivers us. No matter what the enemy intends, God’s interruptions are always possible. The blood still works, and God’s pattern of deliverance continues in our lives today. Let us walk in faith, trusting that God can and will interrupt every intention that is not aligned with his purpose for us.
Key Takeaways
- The Name of Jesus Is Our Strong Tower
There is unmatched power in the name of Jesus. When we call on his name, we are not just uttering a word, but invoking the presence and authority of the one who is above every circumstance. In moments of fear, doubt, or grief, simply calling on Jesus can bring peace and assurance that we are not alone and that God is actively involved in our lives. [29:27]
- God’s Interruption Is Greater Than the Enemy’s Intention
No matter how carefully the enemy or circumstances may plot against us, God’s sovereignty can override and interrupt those plans. The story of Peter’s imprisonment shows that what is intended for harm can be divinely intercepted when we invite God into our situation. Our hope is not in the absence of trouble, but in the certainty that God can rewrite the script at any moment. [01:30:18]
- Patience in the Pause Prepares Us for Deliverance
Delays and pauses in our lives are not signs of God’s absence, but opportunities for him to work in ways we cannot see. Like Peter, who found peace and rest even while awaiting execution, we are called to trust God in the waiting. The pause is often where God does his deepest work in us, settling our hearts and preparing us for the breakthrough to come. [01:51:48]
- The Power of Proximity and Intercession
Being part of a praying community is vital. When we are bound by circumstances or too weary to pray for ourselves, the prayers of others can surround us and become the key to our deliverance. Spiritual proximity—having people who know how to intercede for us—can make the difference between despair and hope, between bondage and freedom. [02:00:33]
- Remembering God’s Pattern of Protection
God has a history of delivering his people, and the blood of Jesus is the ultimate sign of that protection. Just as the Passover blood interrupted the death angel’s intention, the blood of Christ interrupts every plan of destruction against us. Remembering this pattern gives us confidence to face any trial, knowing that God’s deliverance is not just a past event, but a present reality. [02:08:05]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[29:27] - The Power of Jesus’ Name
[30:31] - Honest Questions in the Storm
[31:48] - Jesus Brings Peace
[32:25] - Corporate Prayer and Intercession
[42:59] - Worship and Praise for the Name
[45:23] - Fellowship and Greeting Guests
[51:15] - Celebrating New Members
[53:13] - Announcements and Youth Ministry Highlights
[01:04:54] - Deaconate Nominations
[01:09:31] - Worship Through Giving
[01:22:33] - Preparing for the Word
[01:24:08] - Acts 12: Interrupted Intentions
[01:45:55] - Patience in the Pause
[02:00:33] - Power in Proximity
[02:07:14] - God’s Pattern of Protection
[02:16:11] - The Blood Still Works
[02:19:29] - Invitation and Response
[02:31:21] - Communion: Remembering Christ’s Sacrifice
[02:34:00] - Benediction and Blessing
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: “Interrupted Intentions”
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### Bible Reading
Acts 12:1-5 (ESV)
About that time Herod the king laid violent hands on some who belonged to the church. He killed James the brother of John with the sword, and when he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to arrest Peter also. This was during the days of Unleavened Bread. And when he had seized him, he put him in prison, delivering him over to four squads of soldiers to guard him, intending after the Passover to bring him out to the people. So Peter was kept in prison, but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church.
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### Observation Questions
1. According to Acts 12:1-5, what were Herod’s intentions for Peter, and how did the church respond to Peter’s imprisonment?
2. In the sermon, what does the pastor say about the power of the name of Jesus in times of trouble? [[29:27]]
3. What does the sermon highlight about the role of the church community when someone is facing a difficult situation? [[02:00:33]]
4. How does the story of Peter’s imprisonment show a “pause” or delay, and what is significant about that pause? [[01:45:55]]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Herod waited until after the Passover to execute Peter? What does this reveal about his motives and the situation? [[01:48:29]]
2. The sermon talks about “patience in the pause.” What does it mean to have patience when God seems to delay deliverance, and how did Peter demonstrate this? [[01:51:48]]
3. The pastor mentions the “power of proximity” and the importance of a praying community. Why is it important to have others intercede for us, especially when we feel too weak to pray ourselves? [[02:00:33]]
4. The sermon draws a connection between the Passover in Exodus and God’s pattern of protection. How does remembering God’s past deliverance help us trust Him in present trials? [[02:08:05]]
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### Application Questions
1. The pastor said there is “unmatched power in the name of Jesus.” When you are overwhelmed, what does it look like for you to call on Jesus’ name? Can you share a time when you did this and what happened? [[29:27]]
2. The sermon challenges us to be honest with God about our struggles. Is there a burden you’ve been carrying that you haven’t brought to God? What’s holding you back from being honest with Him? [[31:48]]
3. Peter was able to sleep peacefully even while awaiting execution. What would it look like for you to find peace “in the pause” while you wait for God to move in a difficult situation? [[01:51:48]]
4. The church prayed fervently for Peter when he was in prison. Who in your life needs your prayers right now? How can you be more intentional about interceding for them this week? [[02:00:33]]
5. The pastor said, “There is power in proximity—being connected to a praying community.” Are you connected to people who will pray for you when you can’t pray for yourself? If not, what steps can you take to build those relationships? [[02:00:33]]
6. The sermon reminds us that God’s interruptions are always possible, no matter what the enemy intends. Is there a situation in your life where you need to trust God for an “interruption”? What would it look like to surrender that situation to Him? [[01:30:18]]
7. As we remember God’s pattern of protection, especially through the blood of Jesus, how can you remind yourself daily that God is still able to deliver and protect you? Is there a practice or habit you can start this week to help you remember? [[02:08:05]]
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite group members to pray for one another, especially for those who are in a “pause” or waiting season, and to thank God for His power to interrupt every intention that is not aligned with His purpose.
Devotional
Day 1: God Interrupts the Enemy’s Intentions
No matter what plans or schemes are set against you, God has the power to intervene and overturn what was meant for your harm. Even when it seems like the enemy’s plans are prospering and circumstances are closing in, God can step in and rewrite the script, turning intended harm into deliverance and testimony. When you intentionally invite God’s presence into your predicaments, His providence can interrupt and override every plan that was not sovereignly scheduled for your life. Trust that what was meant for evil, God can use for your good and His glory. [01:44:09]
Acts 12:1-5 (NRSV)
About that time King Herod laid violent hands upon some who belonged to the church. He had James, the brother of John, killed with the sword. After he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to arrest Peter also. (This was during the festival of Unleavened Bread.) When he had seized him, he put him in prison and handed him over to four squads of soldiers to guard him, intending to bring him out to the people after the Passover. While Peter was kept in prison, the church prayed fervently to God for him.
Reflection: Can you recall a time when you felt trapped by circumstances or opposition, yet God intervened in a way you didn’t expect? How might you trust Him to interrupt the enemy’s intentions in your life this week?
Day 2: Patience in the Pause
Sometimes God uses delays and pauses in our lives to create space for divine intervention. The waiting period between the problem and the breakthrough is not wasted; it is where God prepares you, settles your spirit, and gives you peace even before your circumstances change. Like Peter, who slept soundly in prison the night before his scheduled execution, you can find rest and assurance in God’s presence, knowing that He is already at work behind the scenes. The pause is the place where God starts the turnaround, working on the inside before the outside changes. [01:51:48]
James 1:2-4 (ESV)
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
Reflection: Where in your life are you experiencing a “pause” or delay? What would it look like to trust God for peace and preparation during this waiting season?
Day 3: Power in Proximity and Prayer
There is supernatural power when believers come together in prayer, especially in times of crisis. Peter was kept in prison, but the church surrounded him with fervent, targeted intercession. Even when you feel bound or unable to pray for yourself, the prayers of others can become the key to your deliverance. God often initiates divine interruptions through the prayers of a community that stands in the gap, lifting each other up and believing for breakthrough. Never underestimate the impact of being connected to people who know how to reach God on your behalf. [02:00:33]
Matthew 18:19-20 (ESV)
Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.
Reflection: Who in your life needs your intercessory prayer right now? Will you commit to pray specifically and fervently for them this week—and let them know you are standing with them?
Day 4: Remembering God’s Pattern of Protection
God has a proven track record of protecting and delivering His people, even when the odds seem impossible. Just as the Passover reminded every Jew of God’s deliverance from Egypt, we are called to remember that the blood of Jesus still covers, protects, and delivers us from every plan of the enemy. When life’s circumstances threaten to overwhelm you, recall God’s history of faithfulness and let it fuel your confidence that He will do it again. The blood still works, and God’s pattern is to bring His people out, no matter how dire the situation. [02:08:05]
Exodus 12:12-13 (ESV)
For I will pass through the land of Egypt that night, and I will strike all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and on all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgments: I am the Lord. The blood shall be a sign for you, on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague will befall you to destroy you, when I strike the land of Egypt.
Reflection: What is one way you can intentionally remember and celebrate God’s past protection in your life today? How can this remembrance strengthen your faith for what you’re facing now?
Day 5: The Name and Blood of Jesus Are Your Strong Tower
There is unmatched power in the name and blood of Jesus. When you call on His name, you access a strong tower of safety, peace, and deliverance that is above every problem, disease, or difficulty. The blood of Jesus is your covering, your assurance that no weapon formed against you will prosper. In every situation, whether you have many words or just one, calling on Jesus is enough. Plead the blood over your life, your family, and your circumstances, and trust that God will cause what was meant to destroy you to pass over. [29:27]
Proverbs 18:10 (ESV)
The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.
Reflection: What burden or fear do you need to bring under the covering of Jesus’ name and blood today? Take a moment to pray, calling on His name and declaring His protection over your life.
Quotes
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