5-Day Devotional - Day Four

Divine Doors: Part Six
Pastor Becki Stieb

Day 4: Praise—Shaking the Foundations Devotional In the darkest moments of life, praise might seem like the last thing on our minds. Yet it's precisely in these moments that praise becomes most powerful. Prasie is the third key that unlocks Heaven's intervention in our earthly circumstances. Paul and Silas demonstrated this truth powerfully in Acts 16. Beaten, imprisoned, and chained, they had every reason to complain or despair. Instead, they chose to pray and sing hymns to God. The result? An earthquake that shook the prison's foundations, opened all the doors, and loosened everyone's chains. This story more than a historical account; it's a pattern for us. When we praise God in our darkest hours, we invite His presence into our situation. Praise isn't just something we do when we feel good; it's a weapon that breaks chains and opens doors. Praise shifts our focus from our problems to our Provider. It reminds us of God's character, His faithfulness, and His power. It declares that He is greater than whatever we're facing. When we make these declarations in faith, Heaven responds. Whatever prison you find yourself in—whether it's fear, sickness, financial strain, or relationship struggles—begin to praise. Don't wait until you feel like it, or until your circumstances change. Praise God for who He is and what He's promised to do. As you do this, expect the foundations of your situation to shake, doors to open, and chains to fall off. Bible Verse “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone's chains came loose.” - Acts 16:25-26 Reflection Question What situation in your life needs to be shaken by the power of praise, and what specific attributes of God can you praise Him for, even in the midst of this challenge? Quote “When we pray, heaven begins to move on our behalf. Angels are waiting for it. God is waiting on us to talk to Him.” Prayer Lord, I choose to praise You today—not because my circumstances are perfect, but because You are worthy. Like Paul and Silas, I lift my voice in the midst of my challenges. Shake the foundations of every prison in my life. Open doors that seem permanently locked. Loosen chains that have held me captive. I declare that You are greater than any problem I face. In Jesus's name, amen.