Respond Like Stephen

Our church family is reading through the Book of Acts currently. Some words and ideas from this morning's text are noteworthy. Acts 6:8-15. Check it out. 
As you know the church had been established and was experiencing great growth, to the point that all the people couldn't be ministered to properly. So, the church appointed seven men to help them meet this need and allow the church to keep prospering. According to Acts 6:7 it must have worked. 
One of the men put forward was a guy named Stephen. No wonder they chose him, he was full of faith and the Holy Spirit (v.5). Stephen began to serve and to work and to minister...these type of people are a joy to their pastor's heart! 
Problem was many of the 'religious' crowd and 'big cogs of the Synagogues' were threatened by a man like Stephen. What ensues is quite amazing. This crowd rose up and argued v9, they created a coalition of liars v11, 13-14, they stirred up the people v12, and they physically attacked him v12b. Amazing huh for a guy just trying to help and minister. 
If you've served long enough, worked long enough or ministered long enough you have probably seen this type of reaction...perhaps you've been victim of it. If so, what should be your response or how should you react to such a situation? Stephen gives us a good example. There are five things I see from his testimony. One- STAY FULL of grace and power (v 8a).Remember that what comes out of us is what is in us. Two- STAY FERVENT in the task God gave you (v8b). Stephen kept on doing the thing God had called him to do, don't get lost on a side street! Three- STAY FOCUSED on your message (v10).Instead of reacting in unnecessary ways Stephen kept on preaching and speaking truth. Chapter 7 reveals this. Four- STAY FAITHFUL in always reflecting Him (v15). Hard and difficult times don't just make you they reveal who you really are. This crowd could not cope with Stephen's wisdom or his countanence. Five- STAY FORGIVING toward those who don't understand and can't relate. (7:60). Did it cost Stephen? You bet. But to compromise would have cost him so much more. 
Remember, he is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose. 
All of us at times will face moments like Stephen faced, let's just pray we respond the way Stephen responded. 
Have a great Monday and a fantastic week. I hope you will tell someone about Jesus today.