"What did I ever do to deserve this? I must have done something wrong!" This question/statement that I have heard hundreds of times in my lifetime was raised again last week. In fact, I am quite certain that most of you reading this devotional thought have asked the same question at some point on your journey. Both Job and Stephen, from our daily readings, were exceptional men. God Himself endorse...  Read More

If you are ever tempted to say, "I am only..." as a way of speaking of your insignificance or inadequacy to a task, consider the layperson Stephen (Acts 6-7). He was a 'servant' (deacon), who, full of the Holy Spirit, took on the Jewish ruling council, the Sanhedrin. Yes, the same group that chastised and flogged the apostles, Peter and John. What got Stephen into their presence was the way the Ho...  Read More

"As they left the council, they weren’t discouraged at all. In fact, they were filled with joy over being considered worthy to suffer disgrace for the sake of His name. And constantly, whether in public, in the temple, or in their homes, they kept teaching and proclaiming Jesus as the Anointed One, the Liberating King" (Acts 5:41-42, The Voice).Last night we viewed season 3, episode 2 of The Chose...  Read More

How amazing is this? Even Peter's shadow falling on those he passed by was used to bring healing to the sick (Acts 5:15). There is something that emanates from those who have been in the presence of Jesus that impacts those around them. "What is it that is different about them?", people wonder. They can sense it, but they can't always put their finger on it. However, in need, they will find a way ...  Read More

Great power and great grace, what a beautiful combination (Acts 4:33). With great power the early Christians gave witness, and this was a direct result of their prayer for boldness (4:29). Yes, and that prayer for boldness came after there was opposition at the highest level. Out of opposition and struggle opportunity arises for God's glory to shine through His surrendered and willing children. Th...  Read More

"...they were amazed and recognized that they had been with Jesus" (Acts 4:13b).Carriers of the presence of Jesus, Sanctuaries of the Savior, filled with the Holy Spirit and boldness they ministered to the lame, taught the ignorant worshipers and confronted the guilty religious leaders. Peter and John were different, majorly so, after Pentecost, and no one could deny it. The Spirit IN them made al...  Read More