R³ Devotional - Day 322

Standing Firm in the Face of Persecution

Acts 7 contains the final words and martyrdom of Stephen, the first Christian martyr. His defense before the Sanhedrin is a powerful summary of Israel's history, demonstrating how they continually rejected God's messengers—culminating in their rejection of Jesus, the ultimate Prophet.
1. The Power of Looking Up (Acts 7:54-56)
After summarizing the history of Israel's rebellion, Stephen directly accused his hearers of resisting the Holy Spirit and murdering the Righteous One (Jesus). The crowd became enraged, but Stephen had a divine vision.
 "But he, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. And he said, 'Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.'" (v. 55-56)

Real-Life Principle: 
Heavenly Focus Sustains Earthly Strength
When facing extreme pressure, unjust accusation, or fear, shifting your gaze from the surrounding chaos to the reality of Christ's presence provides supernatural peace and courage. Jesus is typically described as sitting at God's right hand, but Stephen sees Him standing—a posture often interpreted as one of advocacy, welcome, or readiness to intervene.

Relevant Applications:

• Discernment in Conflict: In moments of unjust criticism or heated arguments, resist the urge to react immediately. Instead, take a moment to "gaze into heaven"—pause, pray, and seek God's perspective before speaking or acting.
• Courage to Speak Truth: Knowing that Jesus is advocating for you gives you the spiritual backbone to speak God's truth, even when it is unpopular or dangerous.

Ready Action Steps:

• Shift Your Focus: The next time you feel overwhelmed by a conflict or fear, stop and physically look up (or close your eyes). Pray a short prayer: "Lord Jesus, I see You standing. Give me Your strength."
• Affirm His Presence: When you feel alone or judged, write down Acts 7:55-56 and place it somewhere visible (like your phone lock screen) as a reminder that Jesus is actively present and advocating for you.

2. Forgiving While Suffering (Acts 7:59-60)
As the crowd dragged Stephen out and began stoning him, his final actions mirrored those of his Lord.
 "And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, 'Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.' And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, 'Lord, do not hold this sin against them.' And when he had said this, he fell asleep." (v. 59-60)

Real-Life Principle: Forgiveness is the Ultimate Mark of a Disciple
Stephen’s final, selfless act was forgiving his murderers. This act, which echoed Christ's prayer on the cross ("Father, forgive them..."), demonstrates that the power of the Gospel is perfected in our ability to extend grace even to those who seek to destroy us.
Relevant Applications:

• Beyond Grudges: Stephen's prayer was not conditional; it was absolute. Harboring resentment or an unforgiving spirit stops the flow of the Holy Spirit's power in your life.
• Praying for Opponents: The measure of our Christ-likeness is seen not just in how we treat friends, but in how we treat enemies. Praying for those who hurt you breaks the cycle of bitterness.

Ready Action Steps:

• Identify the Barrier: Identify one person who has genuinely hurt or offended you. 

Pray Stephen’s prayer for them aloud: "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." Do this daily until the weight of the offense begins to lift.

• Practice Blessing: Instead of dwelling on the offense, write down three good things you genuinely wish that person would receive (e.g., peace, wisdom, joy). This transforms your heart toward blessing.