MAY 9, Acts 7:54-60, Proverbs 4:23

One of the most terrible and painful ways to die is by stoning. A great Christian who died that way was Stephen. You can imagine what happened that day just before his spirit was lifted to heaven. Rocks were flying. People were throwing rocks at him for saying that he believed in Jesus. The rocks hit his chest; his face and his back. Just before Stephen died, he prayed. Did he ask God to punish his enemies? No! He said, “Lord, please do not punish them for this sin.” After he had said that, Stephen died.

Stephen did not quarrel with his enemies. He had no hatred for them. He did not sin even though they were nasty to him and even killed him. His heart was pure.

Complete the verse Proverbs 4:23 by drawing out the answer.

Thought: I must not let evil thoughts enter my heart.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, King of my life, keep my heart pure for Thee. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.