04/02/2026
In the Book of Acts chapter 6, there was a story of a man named Stephen. He was a disciple that the Scripture discribed "was full of faith and full of the Spirit". He prayed and God wrought many miracles through him, and won many Souls for Christ. But just because you have faith that doesn’t necessarily mean you are exempted from devil's attacks and people's opposition. In fact Gods promotion invite jealousy and hate from demons and people who can’t handle it. Friends, partners, even your household will succeed in becaming your critics, try to discredit you and your calling, dent your reputation and character make you look evil and bad.
Stephen had all, the calling and works that testifies his faith in God, but the religious leaders hated to see God winning through him. They made up lies, false accusations, and had him arrested. They brought him before the council and said, “This man is causing trouble, speaking against our tradition and what Moses taught us.” Stephen was there, in front of this hostile crowd, surrounded by people who didn’t like him, even some who benifited from his ministry were there too testifying against him. He could have thought, “God, where are You? If You’re still with me where is your face, your saving hand? why didn’t You keep me out of this trouble?” But verse 15 says, “All the people stared at Stephen because his face became as bright as an angel.” In front of this angry mob, on trial for something he didn’t do, notice what happened: the glory of God came on him so bright, he was covered in eternal power, full of grace, mercy and love not to avenge but to forgive. He looked like an angel. God was showing us, “When you’re in difficult times, I don’t leave you nor forsake you. I shine brighter.” When you get thrown into the fire or den of lions, He comes in with you. He’s the fourth man, the lion king. I can’t tell you that God’s face will keep you out of trouble, out of difficulty, out of bad breaks, but I can tell you He’ll shine brighter. He’ll give the grace, the strength, the favor to endure. He will see you through, at the end a great table will be prepared in the eyes of your haters and critics.
You and God you are inseparable.
Mashiach Desilva
Shiloh - Kingdom Assembly Intl.