May 11, 2026 | The Movement - A Study in Acts by Byron McWilliams
Day 1: Born Again - The Foundation of Faith
Reading: John 3:1-21
Devotional: Nicodemus came to Jesus at night, confused about spiritual birth. Like him, we cannot inherit salvation through religious heritage or good works. Being born again is not a physical event but a spiritual transformation that occurs when we place our faith in Jesus Christ alone. This is the foundation of everything else in the Christian life. Without this new birth, we cannot see or enter the kingdom of God. Stephen's courage, character, and countenance all flowed from this fundamental reality - he had been born again. Today, examine your own heart. Have you truly been born again? If not, today is your day of salvation. If yes, thank God for His transforming grace.
Day 2: Surrendered Service - Dying to Self
Reading: Luke 9:23-27; Romans 12:1-2
Devotional: Stephen was a servant through and through, not seeking applause but serving because he loved Jesus. True Christian service flows from a surrendered life. Jesus calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross daily, and follow Him. This is not easy - we want to be lord of our own lives. But here is the truth: we cannot carry our will and carry the cross at the same time. The burden is too heavy. When we put our will aside and surrender to Christ, we discover His burden is easy and light. Imagine handing Jesus the keys to your life and saying, "You drive. Take me wherever You want to go." That is surrender. What area of your life are you still trying to control? Give Him the keys today.
Day 3: Filled with the Spirit - Power for Witness
Reading: Acts 1:1-8; Ephesians 5:15-21
Devotional: Stephen was described as "full of faith and of the Holy Spirit." This fullness was not about performing miracles but about being empowered to witness for Christ. The Holy Spirit cannot fill what is already full - if we are full of ourselves, there is no room for Him. Being filled with the Spirit requires ongoing surrender, daily dying to self, and walking in obedience. The power we should seek is not spectacular signs but the power to share the gospel effectively and live as Christ's witnesses. When we are filled with the Spirit, our lives exhibit supernatural fruit: love, joy, peace, patience, and boldness. Are you striving for the right kind of power? Ask God to fill you afresh with His Spirit today for witness and godly living.
Day 4: Unashamed Courage - Standing Firm
Reading: 2 Timothy 1:8-14; 1 Corinthians 16:13-14
Devotional: Stephen joined the fellowship of the unashamed. When opposition came, he did not back down, compromise, or remain silent. He stood firm with wisdom and grace. The Christian life will bring challenges and persecution. People will oppose your faith, question your beliefs, and attack your convictions. But God calls us to "act like men" - to be watchful, stand firm in faith, be strong, and do everything in love. Stephen could not be bought, compromised, or turned back because he was utterly devoted to Christ. Being unashamed means you will not flinch in the face of sacrifice or hesitate before adversaries. Who or what intimidates you from speaking about Jesus? Remember, you are part of the unashamed. Stand firm today.
Day 5: Radiant Countenance - Reflecting His Glory
Reading: Exodus 34:29-35; 2 Corinthians 3:7-18
Devotional: When Stephen stood before his accusers, his face shone like the face of an angel - the Shekinah glory of God radiated from him because he had been in God's presence. Like Moses descending from Mount Sinai, Stephen reflected the glory of the One he served. While we may not physically glow, our countenance should reflect time spent with Jesus. When we abide in prayer, study His Word, and walk closely with Him, people notice something different about us. Even in severe trials, a godly countenance makes a powerful witness. The people who walk most closely with God often suffer the most, yet their sweet spirit and joyful countenance point others to Christ. How is your countenance? Does your face, attitude, and demeanor reflect time with Jesus? Spend extended time in His presence today and let His glory transform you.