Daily Reading: Acts 6
Scripture Focus: They could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking. (Acts 6.10)
Devotional Thought: I would like to have an irresistible testimony, wouldn't you? How can we do that? As we look into the life of Stephen, we find some clues...
· Stephen was full of the Spirit and wisdom (v. 3). He did not depend on his own personal charisma or opinions. His testimony was grounded in God.
· Stephen was full of faith and the Holy Spirit (v. 5). When he took on the job of 'compassionate ministry director', he knew he was getting into a hornet's nest. But, he took it anyway, believing that God would help him do it.
· Stephen was operating under the authority of the church (v. 6). He was willing to submit to the combined wisdom and experience of the church.
· Stephen was full of grace and power (v. 8). Power is a good thing, when used with grace!
· Stephen was doing great wonders and signs (v. 8). Stephen just didn't talk about service. He served!
· Stephen was versed in the Bible. He was clearly a student of the Word.
· Stephen was respectful (7.2). He addressed his accusers properly and with dignity.
· Stephen was courageous (7.51-53). He didn't back down from the truth. He stood upon the truth, speaking it in love.
· Stephen kept his gaze upward (7.56). Had he focused on his accusers, he may have grown discouraged. But, he saw Jesus, and that was enough!
· Stephen was forgiving (7.60). It was this attitude that had such an impact on Paul.
· Stephen trusted Jesus with his life (7.59). Do you?
Is your testimony irresistible?
Prayer: Lord, I want to be an effective witness for you. Fill me with the Holy Spirit and wisdom, and help me to live out my faith when the pressure is on. Amen.
Psalm of the Day: Psalm 67.1-7
1 May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, Selah 2 that your way may be known on earth, your saving power among all nations. 3 Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you!
4 Let the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you judge the peoples with equity and guide the nations upon earth. Selah 5 Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you!
6 The earth has yielded its increase; God, our God, shall bless us. 7 God shall bless us; let all the ends of the earth fear him!
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