Acts 7
John Piper uses the story of Stephen's defense to the Sanhedrin, to teach us about God's grace - writing that Stephen's speech offers both encouragement and a warning. Piper writes that we should be encouraged because the story illustrates God's abounding love in that "[God] is eager to forgive and move on with repentant and humble people." We should also be warned that God's patience is not unlimited using v42 to support his thoughts.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an amazing God who encourages and is full of grace for me - thank You Jesus! I am grateful! Yet I am undeserving of the blessings You pour out on me. I worry and I have other sin. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
But God turned away from them and gave them over to the worship of the sun, moon and stars. v42
John Piper uses the story of Stephen's defense to the Sanhedrin, to teach us about God's grace - writing that Stephen's speech offers both encouragement and a warning. Piper writes that we should be encouraged because the story illustrates God's abounding love in that "[God] is eager to forgive and move on with repentant and humble people." We should also be warned that God's patience is not unlimited using v42 to support his thoughts.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an amazing God who encourages and is full of grace for me - thank You Jesus! I am grateful! Yet I am undeserving of the blessings You pour out on me. I worry and I have other sin. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
