When Stephen was about to be stoned, He looked up to God and received a vision of comfort. Acts 7:55 But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily into heaven and saw the glory of God. And he saw Jesus standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand. 56 And he told them, “Look, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand!” [1]
As Stephen faced the last moments of his life on earth, he did so with the comfort of seeing His Savior. The enemies of God would take his life, but Stephen would enter eternity knowing that Jesus was aware of what He was doing. Think of the reassurance this gave Stephen as they were preparing to stone him.
Jesus gives us a promise. Luke 12:8I tell you the truth, everyone who acknowledges me (Jesus) publicly here on earth, the Son of Man will also acknowledge in the presence of God’s angels.[2] Stephen’s vision of Jesus reminds us that martyrs of the faith don’t die alone or out of the eyesight of Jesus.
Comfort of Knowing Jesus
Every believer may not be martyred like Stephen, but all will face a time when death is impending. The Bible tells us that life is short, comparing it to a vapor or the life of a flower. Although life is short, we can live a life that makes a difference in the Kingdom of God. Paul gives us good advice. Ephesians 4:1Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God.[3]
This is the life Stephen led, and with God’s help, we can do the same. As we contemplate eternity, we can also be comforted that Jesus has gone before us and into heaven. John 14:1Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. 2 There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?[4]
Sometimes, it is good to meditate on God’s word and what He has for us in the future. Jesus tells us we don’t have to be troubled but trust Him with childlike faith. God’s word is supernatural and comforts us no matter the storm we are in or approaching.
Do You Need Comfort Today?
Life has many twists and turns; sometimes, our lives can be turned upside down in a moment. When life throws us a curve, we can always depend on the Lord to be with us. God may not pull us out of our circumstances, but He will always walk with us and never abandon us. There is something about knowing Jesus is with you that allows you to face life’s challenges as you look to Him.
We must turn to God and not rely on our strength as believers. When we realize that the God of the universe knows our circumstances and gave His life for us, we can trust Him. Our eternal destiny is always safe in the Hands of the Good Shepherd. To learn more about a vision of comfort, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/stephen
[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.