Psalm 40 & Acts 6
Psalm 40:1-17
Like the poet, we were troubled by our sins and the oppositions; men’s sacrifices and offerings cannot please God, if there’s no spirit and truth involved. Our trust can only be found in our Lord and our hearts needs to be resolved to follow Jesus and look upon His deliverance.
Acts 6:1-15
Chapter 6 is the beginning record of Stephen, the first martyr of the early church. After the Pentecost, the number of believers grew as well as that of the opposers：
Inside the church, there were complaints between different language speaking groups about the charity work towards the disadvantaged. It might not be the result of lacking brotherly love, but would be a problem to address when the congregation expands. Disciples realized the deficiency of their existing labor of division, with prayers and wisdom from God, solved this earthly matter in a Heavenly way. Stephen was part of the solution, a faithful man equipped by the Spirit and the wisdom from God, with six other brothers in Christ, joining this operation and furthered His kingdom.
Outside the church, the anxiety built up, the opposers found out that they could not argue with Stephen, because he was enabled by the Holy Spirit and gave good testimony. The false accusation and persecution became common tactics for them to ‘stop’ God’s people.
Stephen was not part of the Twelve, but he was part of God’s work and plan. He started as a faithful brother in the congregation, known by God and men; then was elected to attend the administrative matters to serve the church members and serve God; the Lord also gave him the courage to stand up against external attack eloquently. Stephen’s story could be a sample journey of faith for any followers of Christ. How about our journey of faith?
May the Lord bless us and help us to understand His calling and follow Him, may the people behind us also find us faithful. Amen. —- Ivy Lin
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