A MARTYR’S PRAYER
While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep. Acts 7:59,60
There were many Bible prayer warriors who were known for their faith and their prayer lives. David’s psalms, Hannah’s prayer for a child, and Daniel’s defiant prayers are just a few. These are shining examples of what it means to use the blessing of prayer. This list could also include Stephen, the first Christian martyr, and a true model for prayer!
The Bible says Stephen was a man full of grace and power. He served those in need in the early days of the church. But the Jewish leaders in the synagogue detested him. They despised losing every argument to Stephen. They loathed his righteous ways and burned at his pious life. Finally, they arrested Stephen and accused him of blaspheme.
When the charges were brought forward, Stephen replied with 52 verses of remarkable witness. When he finished, it seemed as if the Sanhedrin were on trial instead of Stephen. That was more than his enemies could handle. They dragged Stephen out of the city to stone him.
As his body was being bruised, Stephen uttered a remarkable prayer: “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. . . . Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:59,60). His prayer was directed in faith to the Lord Jesus. Stephen knew where to look for his help and his comfort. In the previous verses, it says that Stephen’s life was filled with the Spirit, and in his death he confided in that Spirit to sustain him.
Stephen also prayed that his enemies might be forgiven. What a beautiful reflection of the words Jesus spoke on the cross: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). Stephen’s prayer was not for retribution but for the rescue of his enemies’ lost souls. What a lesson for our sinful, vengeful hearts.
In the end, Stephen prayed that he might be released from this world. Moments before Stephen’s death God gave him a glimpse into heaven where the Savior stood with open arms. Stephen was ready to be released from his body. His prayer shows that he was confident in death. He had no doubts or fears. Stephen was confident that God would now let his servant depart in peace.
Stephen prayed while serving the Lord. He prayed while suffering for the Lord. And he prayed as he was dying for the Lord. Yet Stephen closed his eyes as a victor, not a victim. What an example for us!
How can Stephen serve as a shining example for you?
From The Gift of Prayer