“Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.” Acts‬ ‭12‬:‭5‬

Herod had successfully killed James, the son of Zebedee; that same James that shared private moments with Jesus and a select few (Peter and John) at Jairus’ house, on the mount of transfiguration, at the garden of Gethsemane- Mark 5:37, 9:2, 14:33. He was privy to such instances in Jesus’ life and yet, Herod killed him without any restraint. Accordingly, Herod had kept Peter in prison, planning to do exactly the same thing and one would wonder if his plan was to go ahead and take John afterwards, BUT his plans for Peter and the future were thwarted because the church prayed. Jesus said:
“…for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.” Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭8‬
God knew that they would have loved James released, but they didn’t ask, he also knew they wanted Peter released and this time they asked and what a mighty deliverance was wrought!
Prayer effects much changes!
“…The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” James‬ ‭5‬:‭16

Bible Reading Plan: Job 15, Ezra 1