Today’s Key Scripture (all references NKJV unless otherwise noted:

Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.

—Acts 6:3-4

It is impossible to predict where your walk with the Holy Spirit will lead.  The story of Stephen, as recorded in Acts, is a good example.  He was not an apostle and, before becoming a deacon, he held office in the church.  Stephen was simply active in the church of Jerusalem, a man full of the Holy Spirit, and faith (see Acts 6:5).

It is apparent that the Holy Spirit was moving in a great and powerful way, touching not only the preachers but also the laymen, for the Bible says, “Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people” (Acts 6:8, KJV).

How did he move from his position as a layman to a position in ministry as an usher or administrator, and then to an evangelist?  He was moved because of his fellowship with the Holy Spirit.  And because of this fellowship, the Holy Spirit gave him great authority and changed his position.

When members of the synagogue began to argue with Stephen, “they were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke” (Acts 6:10). He had a new position, and new authority in ministry.

The beloved Holy Spirit can do the same for you!

A Prayer for Today:

Almighty God, I want to walk wherever Your Holy Spirit leads. I’m so grateful that You plant my feet on solid ground, keeping me from falling, even as You guide and guard along the way. And because of what Jesus did on Calvary, You brought salvation and healing, not just to me, but for my loved ones, as well. Help me, through the example of Jesus and the help of the Holy Spirit, to become holy, even as You are holy, not because of anything I have done or can do, but because of what Jesus has done for me and for who He is. I pray this in Your Holy Name, Amen!