While studying Acts 6, the description of Stephen captured my attention. I’m always drawn into text with generous imagery of God portrayed in an earthly man or woman. When praise is given in scripture, you stop and reread what is stated. I’m roused to question, what makes this man so different? What did he do to gain such affectionate and honorable descriptive words?
I’ve prayed for so many years to reflect the image of Christ. I long to be so filled with the Holy Spirit that my countenance is like none other. Yet, after reading these beautiful words about Stephen, I know I’m far from receiving such praise. I miss the mark on many occasions. However, I think, rather than noting all shortcomings, I’ll make peace in knowing my hearts desire to be like Stephen…like Jesus.
The verses that describe Stephen cannot go un-noted:
“…a man full of faith of the Holy Spirit,” (vs.5, NIV).
“…a man full of God’s grace and power, did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people,” (vs. 8 NIV).
No one could argue, “…his wisdom or the Spirit from whom he spoke,” (vs 10, NIV).
“…his face was like the face of an angel,” (vs. 15, NIV).
Over the years I’ve encountered a number of individuals who would suggests little need of the Holy Spirit. Some are even fearful to mention him among friends or at church. But, in Stephen we see a short story displaying the power of the one and only, Holy Spirit. You cannot separate God the Father, from God the Son, nor God the Holy Spirit. When you seek the Father, you speak to the Son, when you encounter the Son, you are filled with power of the Holy Spirit. The same Holy Spirit that breathed life into Adam, parted the Red Sea, healed the blind man, and rose Jesus from the tomb.
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