When Heaven Stands, We Stand
Morning light through an open window, a quiet reminder that Jesus stands and courage follows.
Devotional Credit: Open Windows, T. Austin-Sparks
Photo Credit: Unsplash
Acts 7 shows Stephen seeing the heavens opened and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. T. Austin-Sparks reminds us that clear sight of the Lord often brings resistance on earth. When the kingdom breaks in through a believer, it unsettles the patterns that ignore God. That is why faithful witness can draw fire. It is not because we are difficult people. It is because the life of Jesus challenges the current.
I read this and think about days when obedience is costly. There are conversations that tighten the room. There are decisions that put us out of step with the crowd. Sparks names it with clarity. Holding a heavenly and spiritual position carries a price. Yet this is where power resides. Not the power of force, but the power of a life anchored in Jesus.
Stephen’s vision lifts my eyes. Jesus stands. He is not distant. He is present and honoring the witness of His people. That changes how I interpret trouble. Pushback is not the end of the story. It is often the context where His life shines.
So here is today’s invitation. Set your mind above. Walk into the day as one who belongs to the Lord. Let His Spirit express courage, patience, and truth through you. What costs you something also bears weight for eternity.
Journal Entry – Voice of the Holy Spirit Through Scripture
I steady your heart. Fix your eyes on Jesus who endured hostility and is your example and strength. The heavens are opened. The Son of Man stands at the right hand of God. I enlighten the eyes of your heart so that you know the hope of your calling and the power toward you who believe.
Do not be surprised at the fiery trial. All who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will face opposition. If the world hated Him, it will resist you. Count it joy when you meet various trials. Through many tribulations you enter the kingdom of God. I am with you. I strengthen you. I uphold you with My righteous hand.
You are a new creation. You are seated with Christ in the heavenly places. Walk by the Spirit. Present your body as a living sacrifice. Let love be genuine. Bless those who oppose you. Overcome evil with good. Stand firm in the armor I provide. Pray at all times. My grace is sufficient. My power is made perfect in weakness.
Set your mind on things above. Consider Him who endured. Do not grow weary or lose heart. Your light and momentary affliction is preparing for you an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison. Keep your eyes on what is unseen and eternal. I will keep you in perfect peace as your mind is stayed on Me.
Scripture references: Acts 7:55 to 56, Hebrews 12:2 to 3, Ephesians 1:18 to 19, 1 Peter 4:12 to 14, 2 Timothy 3:12, John 15:18 to 20, James 1:2 to 4, Acts 14:22, Isaiah 41:10, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Ephesians 2:6, Galatians 5:16, Romans 12:1 to 2, Romans 12:9 to 21, Ephesians 6:10 to 18, 2 Corinthians 12:9 to 10, Colossians 3:1 to 4, 2 Corinthians 4:16 to 18, Isaiah 26:3.
Real-Life Analogy
Noise-canceling headphones do something simple. You turn them on, and the roar fades so you can hear the music. You are still in the same room. The jet is still in the sky. Yet a steady tone comes through. In the same way, when you yield to the Holy Spirit within, the accusations and clamor lose dominance. You are not escaping the moment. You are letting Jesus express His life through you in the moment, so courage and clarity rise without white-knuckle effort.
Try this today. Before a conversation that may cost you, pause and look to where Jesus is. Say, Lord, I trust You to carry Your life through my words and tone right now. Then step in with a settled heart, ready to be patient, truthful, and kind.
Prayer of Confidence
Father, thank You that the heavens are opened and Jesus stands. Thank You that I am joined to Him and that Your Spirit lives in me. I receive this day with gratitude. I set my mind above. I present myself to You for whatever witness You choose to give through me. Where resistance arises, Your peace holds me steady. Where pressure builds, Your grace is sufficient. Lord, I trust You to live Your life in me and through me in what I say and do today.