People Series: Stephen

What can we learn from young Stephen’s life?

I'd like to share five character traits of Stephen from the Book of Acts 6, 7.

A Good Testimony

“Therefore, brothers, choose from among you seven men with good reputations [men of godly character and moral integrity], full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task.”‭‭(Acts‬ ‭6:3‬) 

He was a man with an honest report. Though he was a young man, he was considered a man of wisdom because of the fullness of the Spirit of God working in him. He was considered a responsible youth as he was selected to be one among the seven employed to serve in ministry.

Full of Faith

And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people. (Acts 6:8)

Stephen was not only faithful, but also full of faith. His lifestyle of faith accompanied signs and wonders. Wherever believers go, signs and wonders follow (Mark 16:17). This is the way of the believer, he or she, walks in victory.

Walked in the Fear of God

And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake (Acts 6:10)

Stephen walked in the fear of God. He was full of wisdom. A spirited youth, guided by the Holy Spirit, who loved the Lord and had realised the love and power of God in his life. 

Enlightened 

But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. (Acts 7:55,56)

A man of visions, he was truly led by the Holy Spirit. In the middle of persecution his eyes were opened to behold the beauty of God. It’s fascinating to hear believers gifted to see visions when in prayer, how the Lord confirms revelations or truth. How the Lord reveals His presence at critical junctures in life.

Heart of Love

And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep. (Acts 7:60)

He had the love of the Father in his heart. Like Jesus forgave, he too forgave his persecutors. 

It’s time to cry for the youth of our generation. They live in trying times, especially spiritually. There are way too many distractions and false prophets and teachers deceiving the children and youth. Only the power of the Holy Spirit can break their yoke of mental and emotional bondage.