How can you cultivate a spirit-filled life like Stephen's in Acts 7:55? Seeing Stephen’s Secret: Acts 7:55 “But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.” (Acts 7:55) Embrace the Same Filling • The verse highlights one essential reality—Stephen was “full of the Holy Spirit.” • The Spirit’s fullness is not a one-time dose; it is a continual condition (Ephesians 5:18). • Yield every area of life—thoughts, motives, speech, plans—to the Spirit’s control each day. Gaze Fixed on Jesus • Stephen “looked up to heaven” and saw Jesus. • Nurture a Christ-centered outlook: – Begin and end the day meditating on Christ’s person and work (Hebrews 12:2). – Let every earthly decision be shaped by the reality that Jesus is alive and reigning (Colossians 3:1–2). Saturated in Scripture • Stephen’s defense in Acts 7 reveals deep knowledge of God’s Word. • Practical steps: – Read broadly: cover entire books to grasp context. – Memorize strategically: verses on the Spirit’s work (John 14:26; Romans 8:14). – Reflect daily: allow Scripture to “dwell richly” (Colossians 3:16), letting truth renew the mind (Romans 12:2). Bold in Witness • Spirit-fullness produced fearless testimony, even before hostile listeners (Acts 7:54). • Follow Stephen’s pattern: – Speak the gospel clearly (Romans 1:16). – Trust the Spirit for wisdom and words (Luke 12:11-12). – Accept that faithfulness, not applause, measures success (Galatians 1:10). Anchored in Grace-Shaped Character • Stephen mirrored Christ’s grace, praying for his killers (Acts 7:60). • Cultivate Spirit-given character traits (Galatians 5:22-23) by: – Confessing sin quickly (1 John 1:9). – Choosing love when provoked (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). – Serving others selflessly (Mark 10:45). Powered by Prayer • Spirit-empowered believers are persistent in prayer (Acts 4:31). • Build rhythmic communion: – Set specific times for undistracted prayer. – Intercede for open doors and boldness (Colossians 4:2-4). – Listen as much as you speak, giving space for the Spirit’s promptings. Ready for Sacrifice • Stephen’s Spirit-filled life led to martyrdom, yet victory resounds in eternity. • Adopt a willingness to suffer for Christ (2 Timothy 3:12; Philippians 1:29). • View trials as platforms where the Spirit showcases Christ’s glory (1 Peter 4:14). Walking the Stephen Road Cultivating a Spirit-filled life is the daily, intentional alignment of heart, mind, and actions with the indwelling Holy Spirit. Keep your eyes on Jesus, immerse yourself in Scripture, pray without ceasing, witness boldly, display Christ-like character, and embrace whatever cost comes with loyalty to the risen Lord. |
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