Stephen continued his defense before his accusers, the Sanhedrin, by using well-known and the shared history of the Jewish people.  He recounted the history of Joseph as second only to the Pharaoh of Egypt. 

(ESV) Acts 7:11-16 “Now there came a famine throughout all Egypt and Canaan, and great affliction, and our fathers could find no food. 12But when Jacob heard that there was grain in Egypt, he sent out our fathers on their first visit.  13And on the second visit Joseph made himself known to his brothers, and Joseph’s family became known to Pharaoh.  14And Joseph sent and summoned Jacob his father and all his kindred, seventy-five persons in all.  15And Jacob went down into Egypt, and he died, he and our fathers, 16and they were carried back to Shechem and laid in the tomb that Abraham had bought for a sum of silver from the sons of Hamor in Shechem.”

  What is so amazing about God in those circumstances?  He never abandons His plans, no matter the circumstances or people.  He uses our circumstances to bring about His purposes.  Followers of Christ, God is with us in the everyday “happenings”.  Sometimes those “happenings” are hard, painful, even filled with sorrow.  Those “happenings” are to grow us in our faith in Him.  Always, God’s plans are continuing on and not only for our good but also for the good of many others.

(ESV) 1 Corinthians 10:13 “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man.  God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”

  The Lord God was faithful to Jacob and his twelve sons…to provide food in the time of famine.  The Lord God was faithful to Jacob and Joseph when they were taken back to the land God had promised Abraham…and there they were buried… in Canaan.  (Genesis 50:12-14; Exodus 13:19)

  Famine could not thwart God’s plans then and famine cannot deter God’s plans today.  God is faithful…His words will be carried out.  COVID and political unrest will not stop God’s plans.

~ Take it to heart ~

  Whatever is “happening” in your life today, or in your country, or in your family; our God is able to use it for His purposes and for His glory.

Take it to heart – our God is in control!
He never abandons His plans, no matter the circumstances or people.

Categories: The Acts of the Holy Spirit