Read Acts 6 – Discontent, discrimination and lies…. Does that sound familiar? There is truly nothing new under the sun.
The beautiful unity of Acts 4:32 has worn thin as the church began to grow. There was discontent over the treatment of the widows between those who spoke Greek and those who spoke Hebrew. The apostles recognized that it was time to delegate the responsibility and selected seven well respected men who were full of the Spirit and wisdom.
Beloved, be wise about the little things that keep you from the most important things. Be discerning over your time and willing to entrust responsibility to others.
One of the chosen seven was Stephen: “Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed amazing miracles and signs among the people,” 6:8. Some outside men called him to debate, but could not hold a candle to the wisdom and Spirit with which Stephen spoke(:10). Their hearts were so hard that they persuaded some men to lie about Stephen with accusations of blasphemy…. humanity at its finest… they could have opened their eyes and surrendered their hearts, but instead they chose to persecute. Yet, the Lord was with Stephen and his countenance became as bright as an angel’s(:15).
Beloved, even when it seems hopeless, stand firm in the truth. God is with you and doing things far and above what you see. Do not lose faith.
Judy in the Sky 