Dec 17, 20232 min read

Day 243 - Unjustly Accused, A Lesson from Stephen's Story in Acts

Standing firm for right. Unjustly accused, a lesson from Stephen's story.

Joshua, the son of Nun, was valiant in warfare; he was the successor of Moses among the prophets. He was great in accord with his name, very great in saving the elect of God. He fought against the insurgent enemies, so that he might obtain the inheritance for Israel. What great glory he secured, by lifting up his hands and throwing his spears against the cities!

Who before him has stood so firmly? For the Lord himself led forward the enemies.

Was not the sun halted by his wrath, and one day made as if two? He called upon the Most High Power, when the enemies assailed him on every side. And the great and holy God answered him with hailstones of exceedingly great force.

He made a violent assault against a hostile nation, and at his descent, he destroyed his adversaries,

so that the nations would acknowledge his power: that it is not easy to fight against God. And he followed the Almighty. (Sirach 45.1-8 The Sacred Bible)

And Stephen, while he was being stoned, made prayer to God, saying, Lord Jesus, take my spirit.

And going down on his knees, he said in a loud voice, Lord, do not make them responsible for this sin. And when he had said this, he went to his rest. (Acts 7.59-60 Bible in Basic English (BBE))

Joshua fought the battles of the Lord. We may not physically fight, but we all struggle for God every day. The attack is continual and non-relenting.

Some day, you may stand accused of something you have not done. This happened to Stephen in Acts. He was unjustly accused. A lesson from Stephen's story is powerful for all. Many evil men spoke against him with the hope of having him killed. The miracle of those judging him was witnessing Stephen ask for support from God, and his act of forgiving his attackers. Stephen demonstrated his faith as Jesus did for all to see and later consider. His actions spoke of God's constant presence within him. Think of Stephen in your times of trial and find strength in him and the gifts of belief.

Prayer:

God, you graced Stephen with a heavenly face in a time of great trial. Bless me as I battle against Satan for you in this world. Please make me a wonder for all who see and hear me speak of and for you. Teach them and show them a glimpse of your heavenly beauty through me and other believers so that our encounters may bring true believers to your kingdom. Lord, please bless all who struggle in the world today for you. Light their spirit with your intensity and their hearts with your peace. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen