DAY 12 OF 14 DAYS OF PRAYER AND FASTING

Stephen & Charlie – Martyrs for Truth

Scripture Reading:

> “And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke.” – Acts 6:10, NKJV
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 5:10, ESV


Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, performed wonders and spoke with such wisdom that his enemies could not stand against him. When they could not win in debate, they turned to false accusations, stirring up the crowd, and finally stoning him to death (Acts 7). He became the first Christian martyr.

Today, we see chilling similarities in the assassination of Charlie Kirk. Like Stephen, Charlie was not silenced by intimidation or opposition. He used his voice to point people to truth, and for that, he became a target. The Spirit that empowered Stephen to speak boldly is the same Spirit that emboldened Charlie. The forces of darkness have always raged against truth and righteousness.

Stephen’s story—and now Charlie’s—remind us that faith often comes at a cost. Their deaths were not defeats; they were testimonies. The enemy sought to crush the message, but instead, it spread with greater power. After Stephen’s death, the gospel spread beyond Jerusalem (Acts 8:1).  The same is happening now: Charlie’s life and death has sparked fresh courage in the Church to rise up, speak truth, and love without fear.


When truth costs us something—popularity, comfort, safety—will we still stand?

How can we respond to persecution, not with bitterness or vengeance, but with love and boldness, like Stephen did as he prayed for his killers (Acts 7:60)?

Let this tragedy drive us deeper into prayer, fasting, and proclamation of the gospel.


Prayer:
Lord, make us steadfast like Stephen and Charlie. Fill us with the wisdom and Spirit that cannot be resisted. When hatred rises against truth, let us be found faithful. Teach us to war in the Spirit, not in the flesh. May Your Church shine brighter in this hour of darkness. Strengthen Charlie’s family and all who grieve. And Lord, let his blood—like Stephen’s—become a seed for revival. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
- PASTOR CHERYL

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