We see how God multi-tasks with Peter and Cornelius (Acts 10:1-23). Humans like to think we can multi-task but don’t do this well. Our multi-taking deteriorates into quickly switching between activities because we can only focus on one thing at a time.
In the story of Peter and Cornelius, God answers two prayers with two visions. Acts 10: 3 One afternoon about three o’clock, he had a vision in which he saw an angel of God coming toward him. “Cornelius!” the angel said… 10 and he(Peter) was hungry. But while a meal was being prepared, he fell into a trance. 11 He saw the sky open, and something like a large sheet was let down by its four corners.[1] This double set of visions helped bring God’s plan to these two men and timed these visions to be the most effective. God often works through human agents to carry out His work here on earth.
God Taught Two People in This Situation
God used Peter’s vision to show how Peter needed to change a long-held mindset. Peter did not realize that the work of Jesus was not exclusively for Jews. Jesus came to save all humankind, including the Gentiles. Acts 1:8b And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”[2]
One does not have to become a Jew to become a Christian. One only needs to believe in Jesus as Savior and Lord to follow Jesus. Peter’s refusal to interact with Gentiles needed to end so God could use him to spread the Gospel.
At the same time God was working with Peter, He answered the prayer of a seeking Cornelius. Cornelius had religion but no relationship with Jesus, nor did he know about the Holy Spirit. God used the interaction of these two men to bring them each closer to Him.
God Continues to Multi-task Today
God’s character does not change, so we can be sure that God works in the same way with us today. His timing is not our timing because He works many things at once. His work is beyond our expectations or dreams.
Isaiah 64: 4 For since the world began, no ear has heard and no eye has seen a God like you, who works for those who wait for him! [3] Paul quoted this verse in a letter to the Corinthian church. 1 Corinthians 2: 9 That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” 10 But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God’s deep secrets.[4]
If God hasn’t answered your prayers the way you desired, keep on praying. God works in His way and timing because He can work with many people simultaneously. Be open to something surprising as God multi-tasks in this crazy world. To learn more, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/double-visions
[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.