Reading: Acts 7:1-60
But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. Acts 7:55 (NKJV)
Stephen was one of the seven men highly chosen to be part of the leadership in the new church (Acts 6:1-5). Stephen was a man full of faith and power (Acts 6:8). He was willing to serve the Lord Jesus in whatever capacity was needed, whether it was a great or small act of service. He was part of the leadership team distributing to the needs of the widows (Acts 6:1-2). He was also an evangelist, speaking the Gospel of the Lord Jesus to the Jews (Acts 6:9-10). Stephen, through the power of the Holy Spirit, did great things for the Lord Jesus. He was a man of faith, full of wisdom in the Word of God. The Holy Spirit gave wisdom to Stephen in understanding the word of God in the Old Testament, as he related the history of Israel and made the connection of Jesus as the Messiah (Acts 7:52). Stephen also had the courage and audacity to speak the truth and reprove the elders and religious leaders of Israel (Acts 7:51-53).
However, speaking the truth and the Word of God cost him his life. Stephen was condemned to death without due process of the law. Stephen was stoned to death because of his audacity and stance for the Lord Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah and Savior (Acts 7:58). Still Stephen was steadfast in his faith, and the Holy Spirit allowed his eyes to see the heavens opened.
“But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.” Acts7:55 (NKJV)
With his last breath, Stephen was welcomed by the Lord Jesus and God the Father into his eternal home in heaven.
Reflection:
As followers of our Lord Jesus, when we obey His call to share and preach the Good News of salvation, the Holy Spirit gives power and courage. Even amid opposition and hostility, the Holy Spirit gives audacity to stand for our faith just like Stephen. The Holy Spirit also opens eyes to see the glory of God even at the end of life.
Thought for the Day: As followers of Jesus, when we stand in faith, the Holy Spirit can open our eyes to see the glory of God.
Prayer: Holy Spirit open my eyes to see the glory of the Lord. Help me to have power and audacity to share the Lord Jesus and His Word with others.
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