DAILY READINGS: Ruth 3-4; Isaiah 43 to 44:5; 2 Corinthians 3 to 4:6
Devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him. Acts 8:2
There was great joy in that city. Acts 8:8
Great woe to great joy in six verses! It was a dreadful time. Stephen had been murdered. Saul was attacking the church. Christians were being jailed. Many were scattering. But “when the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him” (Isa 59:19). As the Christians scattered, they preached the Word. Many people were saved; many were healed. And there was great joy. Is your outlook dismal? The enemy is no match for our Standard Bearer. In confidence, go forth with Him. —David J. Logan
Christ our royal Master, leads against the foe;
Forward into battle, see His banner go! —Sabine Baring-Gould