May 25 | Acts 6:59-60

 “And they were stoning Stephen while he was calling out and saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!” And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, don’t hold this sin against them.” And after saying this, he fell asleep.” (Acts 6:59-60)

I’m impressed with people who are not afraid to speak out against wrong, even though it’s unpopular. They put their reputation on the line for something they believe in. You don’t see that often these days.

Stephen, the first martyr of the Church, told the Jewish leaders their history. They were not fond of him because he stood up for Jesus. He put his life on the line, and they took him up on his offer. He could’ve kept his head down. But he didn’t. He paid the ultimate price. Like Jesus, he got in trouble for stating the truth.

I’m struck by how he handled his martyrdom. He made them angrier when he said he saw Jesus ready for him. Is Jesus ready for you? If you don’t acknowledge Him, He will not acknowledge you before the Father.

Is Jesus proud of your unpopular witness? Stephen gave his life to defend Jesus. He sounds like Jesus when Jesus was on the Cross. As they stoned him, Stephen cried out, “Receive my spirit.” and forgave them.

Action Step: Evaluate your commitment to Jesus. Could you say the same as Stephen? Would you be able to forgive your persecutors even when they were killing you?

Jesus, give me the strength to handle persecution and peer pressure to turn away from You. I am ready to give my life for You. I know You look on me with pride because of my commitment to You and Your gospel.