Matthew 5:11
Have you ever felt disheartened when someone shuts you down while you’re sharing the Gospel? Felt discouraged when the works you do for God don’t produce the fruit you want? Have you ever been rejected by others who don’t share your Christian faith? If so, you’re not alone. The Bible is filled with stories of the disheartening, discouraging, rejection of God’s prophets and messengers. And one of these is the story of Stephen, the church’s first martyr. Accused and facing death, instead of defending himself, Stephen gave a speech that convicted his fellow Jews. A speech so filled with faith, that as he testified all who looked upon Stephen saw the glory of God. And so powerful, it forever changed the life of a young man named Saul. So even in times of feeling disheartened, discouraged, and rejected, keep spreading the Good News. Keep working for God. For who knows, there may be a Saul in the crowd listening nearby.
