PASTORS' DAILY DEVOTIONAL
Jan
31

Taking The Hit for Him

John Tilton

Scripture
Acts 7:54-60 When the members of the Sanhedrin heard this, they were furiousand gnashed their teeth at him.But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit,looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. “Look,” he said, “I see heaven openand the Son of Manstanding at the right hand of God.”At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him,dragged him out of the cityand began to stone him.Meanwhile, the witnesseslaid their coatsat the feet of a young man named Saul.While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he fell on his kneesand cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.”When he had said this, he fell asleep.
Observation
The Sanhedrin and Stephen both knew the truth that Stephen had brought to their attentiion. Yet, the Sanhedrin would not accept the truth as it convicted them on their wrongs. In sptie of the anticipated consequences, Stephen persevered with the truth and calling the Sanhedrin out on their wrongs. His faith and obedience was so dedicated that the Lord opened heaven for Stephen to see the Son of Man. God was so good and faithful to give Stephen a glimpse of the Glory of God and Jesus that he would experience the truth even before his impending death. This is the faith of God that allowed Stephen to face death and take the hit for the Lord.
Application
There are times when we will be wrongfully accused or found guilty in certain situation or in the eyes of those that are against us. However, if we know the truth and that we may not have control over or be able to change the situation, are we able to persevere for what is right, fair or a witness for the Lord? Are we in those situations able to follow in obedience and example, not seeking our day in court or to right a wrong? Can we truthfully suffer for God if asked or in need to do so? In these times, we will face situations where we as Christians will be tested, oppressed and falsely judged. It is my desire that I or we will be able to respond by the will of God and even take a hit for the Lord if need to, by dying to self and putting our faith, hope and trust in Him.
Prayer
Dear Lord, in the eye of injustice, may I instead focus on your will, faith and hope in your to accomplish your will. May you gude me, strengthen me and enable me to face injustice for the sake of your call on my life ... especially in these precarious times.

Devotions for January 31

Exodus 28,29
Acts 7

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