How can we emulate Stephen's faith in our daily lives? Stephen’s Example: Faith Lived Out Acts 6:5 records, “They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit.” His faith was not theoretical. It overflowed into every part of his life, setting a pattern worth following. Live Continually “Full of Faith and the Holy Spirit” • Faith is trust anchored in God’s revealed Word. • Fullness of the Spirit is not a one-time event; Ephesians 5:18 urges, “Be filled with the Spirit.” • Daily disciplines that keep the heart filled: – Unhurried Scripture reading and meditation (Psalm 1:2). – Consistent prayer, yielding plans and desires to the Spirit’s leading (Romans 8:14). – Immediate obedience to promptings that align with Scripture (James 1:22). • Resulting fruit: “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23). Serve Where You Are Placed • Stephen was first appointed to distribute food (Acts 6:2-3). Humble service opened doors for greater influence. • Faithfulness in ordinary tasks demonstrates trust in God’s sovereignty (Colossians 3:23-24). • Look for practical ways to relieve burdens in your church and community—meals, childcare, visitation, administrative help. Speak Truth with Grace and Power • Acts 6:8: “Stephen, full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people.” • He explained Scripture clearly in Acts 7, weaving Israel’s history into the gospel of Christ. • Cultivate readiness: “Always be prepared to give a defense… with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). • Pair bold proclamation with visible compassion—word and deed reinforce each other (Matthew 5:16). Endure Opposition Without Compromise • Stephen faced hostile debate, yet “they could not stand up to the wisdom the Spirit gave him” (Acts 6:10). • Ground yourself in sound doctrine to answer faithfully (2 Timothy 4:2). • Expect resistance when truth confronts hardened hearts; cling to Christ’s promise in John 15:18-20. Respond with Forgiveness • Even while stones flew, Stephen prayed, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:60), echoing Luke 23:34. • Forgiveness protects the soul from bitterness and keeps the witness clear (Ephesians 4:32). • Practice quick, sincere forgiveness in daily irritations so the reflex is ready in greater trials. Practical Daily Checklist 1. Begin each morning surrendering to the Spirit’s control. 2. Read a portion of Scripture, noting one truth to apply before day’s end. 3. Look for at least one act of service that meets a specific need. 4. Speak gospel truth whenever God opens a conversation. 5. Thank God for every challenge, asking for grace to stand firm. 6. End the day with an inventory of attitudes, promptly forgiving and confessing anything that conflicts with Christ’s character. Following Stephen’s pattern turns ordinary days into arenas where Christ’s power, grace, and steadfast faith become unmistakably real. |
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