Stephen, filled by the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven. He saw God’s glory, with Jesus standing at the right hand of God, and he said, “Look! I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!”— Acts 7:55–56
What talent impresses God? No one can argue that Michael Jordan is the best basketball player ever, or that Tiger Woods is the most talented golfer in the world. But does their talent surprise God? Is Jesus amazed when Tiger sinks a fifteen-foot putt or when Jordan makes a game-winning basket? No, because He gave them these athletes their ability, so their victories are no surprise to Him. Actually, nothing surprises God. He has always known the end from the beginning in all matters.
Nothing impresses Him either in terms of mankind, which is why He had to send His one and only Son to rescue and redeem lost, sinful people. The Bible teaches that there is no one who seeks after God—no, not one (Rm 3:21). So He seeks us instead, and gives us our talents and everything else about us so that we will respond to Him. Once we belong to Him, our lives are His and our goals change. We desire to serve Him in all we do.
Stephen was arrested because the Sanhedrin could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke (Ac 6:8), and his service cost him everything. Yet as he was being stoned, Stephen saw heaven open and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. Stephen had reached his eternal home—the same one that awaits all who belong to Him.
1. What talents do you have? Are you using them for God’s glory?
2. How are your talents or gifts making a difference in God’s kingdom?
Extra Reading: Acts 6:8–15; 7:51–60
Father, I thank You for blessing me with athletic and physical abilities. Now as Your spirit dwells in me, I want to use my talents and gifts for Your kingdom. I make myself available to be used for this purpose. Amen.
