I have been teaching through the book of Acts on Sunday mornings and as I was preparing for this weeks message in Acts 6:8-7:60 I was overcome with conviction as I looked at my life in comparison with that of Stephen.
I was searching for a word to describe Stephen's life and the only one I could think of was "offering." Stephen's life was an offering to God. How many times do we sing songs like "I Surrender All," and "Take My Life and Let it Be" while at the same time thinking about the new vehicle we have in the parking lot or the beautiful lawn awaiting us at home.
Are we prepared to be an offering like Stephen? If one is unwilling to part with the creature comforts of this life you can be assured he will not be willing to part with his life, no matter what the cause.
“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:6-8
