Knowing God’s truth
by Carolyn Ehrlich
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And the high priest said: ‘Are these things so?’ (Acts 7:1).
Read Acts 6:15–7:16
Towards the end of yesterday’s reading, we read that people were stirred up against Stephen – a man full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom. False witnesses were found. When asked by the high priest whether the allegations were true, Stephen had a decision to make. He could speak to save himself, or he could use the moment to speak the truth of God’s love and care for his people. He spoke of God’s faithfulness to his people. He spoke of the well-established evidence that God blessed his people throughout history. Staring death in the face, Stephen humbly submitted to God’s truths that he refused to deny. He was stoned for his conviction.
What would you do in Stephen’s situation? Ponder that for a moment. In today’s world, we are so often bombarded with messages of self-preservation at all costs. But how did Stephen approach this time? He confidently knew God’s truth. He knew God’s love. He knew the truth of God’s love and care for his people across history. Whatever he was facing, he wanted others to know the importance of God’s truth. He knew deeply that he was loved – so deeply that he had the face of an angel (Acts 6:15).
God loves each of his chosen people deeply, faithfully. He loves me and he loves you. Know that truth. Ponder God’s love. God loved Abraham. He was faithful to his promise to Abraham. Stephen knew that. Whatever you are facing today, know that God is faithful. Know that your reward is not in this life, but in eternity. Know that God has a better plan. And when you are asked ‘Are these things so?’, trust that you can rely on God’s truth, revealed in Scripture. God’s truth about you trumps anything that false witnesses might say.
Loving Father, your truth is the only truth. You continually show us that our reward is not in this world, but in eternity with you. Amid whatever we are facing today, help us to know your love – intimately, personally, relationally. Thank you for the gift of eternal life through your son, Jesus. Amen.
Carolyn Ehrlich lives in retirement with her husband Wayne in Ipswich, Queensland. Prior to retirement, Carolyn worked as a researcher in the fields of disability and rehabilitation. Today, Carolyn is kept busy with hobbies, supporting the Ipswich Lutheran Parish in various leadership roles and supporting her family.
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