“And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them” (Acts 6:1-6).
The early church was growing in number. Given the big mix of Jewish peoples, there were bound to be some problems. The apostles found themselves spread pretty thin in trying to take care of the needy, attend to church needs and find time for prayer and Bible study.
They decided to turn everything but prayer and Bible study over to a godly group of men who would help. The brethren wisely chose seven men with the credentials listed in today’s Scripture passage. These men were gifted with servant hearts, and they were ordained in the church where they served. By using their spiritual gifts, these men helped lighten the apostles’ load.
In the same way, using your spiritual gifts within your church can lighten the load of your pastor. He needs time to devote to the Word and prayer. He can’t have much of that if he has so many other responsibilities. You may not be ordained like the deacons in today’s verses, but you can follow their example in using spiritual gifts.
Sue Winchester
Missouri
PRAY TOGETHER: Today is Day 23 of 40 days of Prayer and Fasting with International Missions. Ask God to give Clint Morgan wisdom as he directs the International Missions department. Pray for safety of travel, direction as he leads, and insight as he plans strategy.
From Home Missions: Five home missionaries are dealing with major health issues. Pray for healing as God wills and for good health of all home missionaries.
“Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me” (Romans 15:30).
