Steve on 14 April 2005

Scripture

Acts 7:59-60

59. While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, ‘ Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.’ 60. The he fell on his knees and cried out, ‘ Lord, do not hold this sin against them.’ When he had said this, he fell asleep.

Observation

In this chapter of acts Stephen is captured and brought to the high priest. He begins to tell the high priest. He told the story of Moses and how he freed the people of Egypt. At the end of his speech he calls the people ‘stiff necked’ and starts to abuse them. The people became furious and began to stone Stephen.

Application

In this scripture of acts an evangelist named Stephen (a powerful man, how ironic) stood up to the people and defended God’s word. To often enough, as humans we are afraid of what people may think or how they will react towards our actions. Which is why to be an evangelist of God you need courage and faith to overcome these barriers.

Prayer

Lord I pray that you will give me the strength and courage to become a powerful Evangelist like Stephen. Let me talk freely of your word to those around me and develop a better relationship with you. I know sometimes due to my own fear of what people will think it is hard to tell people about Jesus, but I know that with you to guide me this fear will disappear. All this I pray in Jesus name amen.