We Never Really Know How God Will Turn Things Around
Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, spreading the word only among Jews. Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus.
Acts 11: 19-20, NIV
The death of Stephen became one of the reasons why the early Christians were scattered in different places. Even though what happened to him was a tragic event, it seems that it became a way for them to share the gospel outside Jerusalem. The bad things that happened to Stephen became an opportunity for the other believers to spread the good news not only to the Jews but also to the Gentiles.
This may not have been an easy moment for them because they lost someone who was a faithful believer of Jesus, but God turned this painful event into an opportunity that pushed others to share the good news to other places.
Sometimes, we associate the bad things that happened in our lives as a punishment. But according to Romans 8:28, “God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This somehow affirms what He did with the early disciples. Even though they were scattered because of the persecution, still this unexpected event became a way for them to spread the gospel.
In our lives, we will also encounter tragic moments that will test our faith. Just like what the followers of Jesus experienced before, there will be painful and unexpected tragedies. But the good thing is God’s grace is always there. We never really know how He will turn things around. One thing is for sure, God will never leave us alone. Everything will be okay in the end. He will use the bad things that happened as an opportunity for us to share His love and spread the gospel.
Prayer: Loving Father, thank you so much for giving us the chance to know you more through the painful things we experienced. Thank you for leading us to your heart and giving us the opportunity to stay connected in your arms. We bless your name, Lord, for everything that you’ve done. As we continue to serve you, we pray for the strength to overcome the tragedies and unexpected events. We pray that you will remind us of your everlasting love, and unfailing grace. This we ask, and pray, in Jesus’ name, amen.
