While doing my Bible Study homework, I read three sentences in the workbook that dropped me to my knees.

The assignment included reading the passage in Acts about the first martyr for Christ, Stephen. Stephen was full of God’s grace and power (Acts 6:8) and he had the face of an angel (Acts 6:15).

Stephen was doing the very thing for which he was made. It’s sometimes hard to digest, but at times our trials are part of our calling. Sometimes it’s to get us to our calling, sometimes it’s to strengthen our faith while doing our calling and well, sometimes the trial IS our calling. That was the case for Stephen. He was stoned to death for his belief and ministry of Jesus Christ. As he was being stoned he looked up to Heaven and saw God’s Glory and Jesus standing at His right hand (Acts 7:55).

What caught my attention was this statement: “Worthy, indeed, was his calling. It brought the Son of God to His feet. He stood in Stephens honor …”

When I read that, I just sat in awe of Jesus. What an amazing and wonderful thing to see in God’s Word. When we face our trials, our Stephen moments, when we feel like the stones won’t stop….Jesus is there, standing at the right hand of God Almighty, cheering us on and strengthening our faith and perseverance!  He is shouting come on (insert your name), I know you can make it! I’m here; there is nothing that can stop you now! You were made for this moment! You were made to be a witness for Me. There is so much power in that knowledge!

Thank You, Jesus for believing in me and for giving me the strength and the courage to do what you have called me to do!