Prayer Focus-Receive My Spirit

JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of Focus, we take a look at the prayer of Stephen during persecution.

In Acts 7:59, religious leaders of the Sanhedrin were not receptive to the words of Stephen when he confronted them about rejecting Jesus.

Their first reaction was to cover their ears and yell at the top of their voices. Their second reaction was to stone Stephen.

While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” His last recorded words were also spoken in a prayer, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.”

Sometimes, God allows suffering in the life of His children. Many followers of Jesus have been martyred for their faith. Stephen was the first one.  His example in death reflected the words of First Peter 4:19, “So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator, and continue to do good.”

The prayer of Stephen during persecution is worth examining for a faith-focused life.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com