Stephen’s life was a testament to the power of God working through a surrendered heart. He didn’t act out of personal ambition but by the Holy Spirit’s prompting. His deep relationship with God empowered him in such a way that even those who tried to debate or oppose him couldn’t outsmart him. When they failed to argue against him, they resorted to lies and false accusations. Despite these attacks, Stephen had done nothing wrong. He lived a life of grace and mercy, freely giving because of God’s goodness—not seeking recognition or praise, but simply fulfilling the purpose God had placed within him.

Stephen wasn’t shaken by the lies thrown at him. He was rooted and solid in his faith—like the very stones that were hurled at him. His responses weren’t from pride but from a divine strength that came from the Holy Spirit. He confronted sin, not to condemn, but to call people to repentance. His words were sharp because they carried the weight of truth, yet the people he spoke to weren’t ready for it. They rejected his message and turned against him, just as they had rejected Christ.

Stephen’s unwavering commitment to God’s Word and his boldness in speaking the truth cost him his life. Though the world didn’t honor him, his words, empowered by the anointing of God, pierced hearts and convicted many. Yet, rather than turning to God, those around him chose to attack.

What Stephen exemplified was a heart that kept its eyes on the prize—on the eternal hope that was set before him. Even as he was stoned, he prayed for his attackers, asking God to forgive them. Through Stephen’s suffering, God’s power was made evident, and others were encouraged to lean on the Lord.

1. Let us follow Stephen’s example—standing firm in faith, living in humility, and praying for unity in the body of Christ. Like Stephen, let us continue to serve God, no matter the cost, knowing that our reward is not in this world, but in the one to come.