On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong was at the controls of the lunar landing module during its descent to the moon's surface. The computer was controlling the descent to a predetermined landing spot.
As the spacecraft came near the intended landing site, Armstrong saw that the site was unsafe. He took over control of the landing from the computer to guide the module to a safer place. His heart rate soared but his mind was clear and his courageous action in a life threatening situation saved the mission from possible disaster.
In the context of today's verses Peter and John were in a very difficult situation. They were standing before the religious authorities who had arrested them and put them in jail overnight. The apostles knew that their lives were in danger as they faced their enemies.
Our text assures us that Peter and John were ordinary men without special training. Unlike Neil Armstrong who had many rehearsals back on earth for landing on the moon, Peter and John had no schooling on how to behave in dangerous situations.
The courage of the apostles amazed the angry men who had arrested and imprisoned them. As the authorities sought to understand how these men could be so courageous, they decided it was because Peter and John were associated with Jesus.
This story of the brave apostles reminds us of the fact that those who follow Jesus will not escape the trials of life. But the good news is that when the difficult times come, courage is given by Jesus to those who follow Him. You may be an ordinary person, but you serve an extraordinary God.
It is tremendously encouraging to know that the Lord will provide His people with the needed resources to face any trial in life. The promise of Scripture is: "As your day, so shall your strength be." (Deuteronomy 33:25).
Take this promise to the Lord today and ask Him to strengthen you as He promised. He will not fail you in your time of need. You too shall have supernatural courage to face your enemy whatever, whoever it is.
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
