READING: 2 Chronicles 27-30, Acts 7:54-8:8
I’m grateful for the freedom God has given many of us to worship Him without threat on our lives. I’ve taught in places around the world where believers faced such things, but never have I felt my life at stake for following Jesus. I know nothing of persecution like others face.
Of course, today’s reading in the book of Acts reminds us the early church did indeed face such persecution. Stephen had been a faithful witness for the gospel, but now he would suffer for his commitment. Others dragged him from the city and began stoning him. There, he prayed two prayers I hope I would pray should I ever face the same situation:
- “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!” (Acts 7:59) – an expression of trust and confidence in the One who had expressed similar words as He died for the sins of the world, including Stephen’s
- “Lord, do not hold this sin against them!” (Acts 7:60) – an almost unbelievable response toward his murderers—again an echoing of Jesus’ similar words on the cross
Trusting Jesus, Stephen died with the heart of his Redeemer. May you and I do the same.
PRAYER: “God, thank You for martyrs like Stephen. Help me to pray for those under persecution today.”
DAILY ACTION STEP: Live today as if it were your final day on earth. It could be.
TOMORROW’S READING: 2 Chronicles 31-33, Acts 8:9-40