1In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. 3Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.” 5This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. 6They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them. 7So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.
Meditation
- The life of Early Church was full of miracles, sharing, and fellowship. How wonderful it would have been to be a member of this “Perfect” church. In fact, the Early Church also had problems just like today. There is no perfect church until the coming of Christ in union with believers.
- If you have been frustrated with your church, are you willing to spend the same amount of energy to pray for your church and pastors?
- Spend a few minutes to pray for your church, pastors, ministries and other believers.
Family Time (Begin this time by reading the passage above using a children’s Bible.)
Name all the deacons in your church. Allow everyone a chance to introduce one deacon to the rest of the family. End it by praying for each deacon. You may ask children to write the names of each deacon in your Family Devotional Journal.
Prayer & Journaling: On your prayer journal, as you listen to God, write down a few thoughts, questions, words, names, drawings, or anything that has come to your mind during this time.
Proverbs for Today 12:17-20
17 Whoever speaks the truth gives honest evidence, but a false witness utters deceit. 18 There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. 19 Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment. 20 Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, but those who plan peace have joy.