“He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly. One day at about three in the afternoon he had a vision.” —Acts 10:2-3 NIV

In this time in Jewish custom there were fixed hours of prayer: the third hour (9 AM), the sixth hour (noon), and the ninth hour (3 PM).

Cornelius was a Roman centurion, a Gentile, yet he was devout and God-fearing. He prayed regularly and gave generously to those in need. One day, during the ninth hour of prayer (3 PM), Cornelius had a vision from God. This vision set in motion a series of events that would change the early church forever.

Meanwhile, Peter also had a vision while he was praying at the sixth hour (noon). Through these visions, God communicated His plan to bring the Gentiles into the fold of His people, breaking down the barriers that had separated them from the Jews.

Reflection:

1. The Discipline of Prayer: Both Cornelius and Peter were in prayer when God spoke to them. Their commitment to prayer positioned them to receive God’s revelation. This shows us the importance of regular, disciplined prayer in our own lives.

How can you incorporate fixed hours of prayer into your daily routine?

2. Expectant Prayer: Cornelius and Peter prayed with an expectation that God could and would speak to them. When we set aside specific times to pray, we should do so with the expectation that God can use these moments for powerful outcomes.

What expectations do you have when you pray? Are you open to hearing from God and seeing His work in your life?

3. God’s Timing: The fixed hours of prayer in Jewish tradition were not just routine but opportunities for divine encounters. By aligning ourselves with these times of prayer, we open ourselves up to God’s perfect timing and purposes.

How can you encourage others to join you in this practice of prayer?

Consider incorporating fixed hours of prayer into your daily routine. Whether it’s at 9 AM, Noon, or 3 PM, take a few moments to pause, seek God, and listen for His voice. These dedicated times can become powerful moments of divine encounter, just as they were for Cornelius and Peter.

Prayer: Lord Most High, we thank You for the example of Cornelius and Peter, who faithfully sought You in prayer. Help us to be disciplined in our prayer life, setting aside specific times each day to seek Your presence. Give us the expectation and faith to believe that You can speak to us and work powerfully in our lives when we faithfully consistently seek you. Use our prayers to align us with Your purposes and timing. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Action Steps:

• Set a reminder for the fixed hours of prayer: 9 AM, Noon, and 3 PM (this week)
• Use these times to pause, pray, and listen for God’s voice.
• Share this practice with a friend or family member and encourage them to join you in these moments of prayer.