In our reading, we find Stephen’s speech. Stephen was a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit but, was facing difficult accusations. Stephen begins his speech by telling us of the history of Abraham, Joseph, and Moses. He tells of the assignment that was given to each of them. Although they were God given instructions and/or assignments from God, their destinations were not easy to reach. Stephen easily identified with them because he saw this as an assignment from God and he recognized that it would not be an easy journey for him either, but God ordained. It was evident that Stephen was a man full of faith, and grace, which can be identified as the Holy Spirit. Because of this, Stephen had his trust in God and spoke with confidence and boldness. In verse 55 it says, “ 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.” In this moment, we must recognize that although Stephen was facing persecution, he was able to look up and still see the hand of God.
Read the book of Job. You’ll find a man who lost everything and faced a lot of trials. He questioned and asked God why, but at the end of the day his trust was in God and he recognized that God was in control. In the end, God blessed him with a double portion.
Sometimes we’re on a journey and we’re faced with trials and tribulations that don’t make sense, or we ask ourselves why God is allowing this to happen. 2 Timothy 3:12 tells us that, “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” Our journey will not be easy. We will face trials and tribulations. Jesus has given us the gift of the Holy Spirit who is always there, so we never face anything alone. Allow the Holy Spirit to fill you so that you can begin to see with the eyes of the Holy Spirit. You too will be able to see the hand of God in your situation. Although you may feel persecuted, take a minute to look up to the hills, where your help comes from, and see the hand of God in your situation.