SUNDAY March, 19, 2023
Forgiveness for Murderers
And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
Acts 7:59-60
The religious elites fueled by zealous indignation continued to stone Stephen. As he was dying, he called out to God. Now Stephen did not ask the Lord to judge any of his murderers, no, he asked God to forgive them instead. His words mirrored Jesus’ words before He died on the Cross for our sins. While suffering such physical agony, Jesus said: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do” (Luke 23:34).
The Holy Spirit gave Stephen the grace he needed to give his life for Christ. What a beautiful picture of a martyrdom. Stephen, knew he was dying, but he gave such a powerful response of God’s love and mercy. He expressed meekness and humility in response to hatred. It takes the power of the Holy Spirit to become a martyr. Stephen died and went right into the presence of the Lord.
Knowing His disciples would face persecution, do you remember how Jesus prepared them? He told them:
“Now when they bring you to the synagogues and magistrates and authorities, do not worry about how or what you should answer, or what you should say. For the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say” (Luke 12:10-12).
Know this: if God calls you to become a martyr for His name’s sake; He will give you the exact words you need to say. By His grace, you will not be filled with anger or begin to curse at your oppressors; you will become a bold witness of the love, grace and mercy of God.
You never so touch the ocean of God’s love as when you forgive and love your enemies.
~Corrie ten Boom~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
