June 12 – Confidence in The Steadfast Love of the Lord
Psalm 13:5–6
But I have trusted in your steadfast love; my heart shall rejoice in your salvation. I will sing to the LORD, because he has dealt bountifully with me.
Scripture Reading – Acts 6:1-15; 7:1-60
Psalm 13 ends with a declaration of trust: “But I have trusted in your steadfast love.” David's circumstances had not yet changed, yet his confidence rested in God's character rather than his situation. Stephen demonstrates this same faith in Acts 6–7. Though falsely accused, opposed, and ultimately martyred, Stephen remained steadfast because he knew God was faithful. As he recounted Israel's history, he reminded his listeners that God had always been present with His people, even in seasons of suffering and rejection. Facing death, Stephen fixed his eyes on Jesus standing at the Father's right hand and entrusted his spirit to Him. Both David and Stephen teach us that faith is not the absence of hardship but confidence in God's steadfast love through hardship. Because God is faithful, believers can trust Him, worship Him, and remain courageous regardless of their circumstances.
The songs "This I Believe," "Death Was Arrested," "Praise to the Lord (Joyful, Joyful)," and "Christ Our Hope in Life and Death" echo the truths found in Psalm 13 and the life of Stephen. This I Believe anchors our hearts in the foundational truths of the gospel, reminding us that our faith rests in the triune God and the resurrection of Jesus. Death Was Arrested celebrates the freedom Christ secured through His death and resurrection, the very hope that gave Stephen courage in the face of death. Praise to the Lord (Joyful, Joyful) calls believers to rejoice in God's goodness and faithfulness even amid life's challenges. Christ Our Hope in Life and Death reminds us that our ultimate confidence is not in earthly outcomes but in Christ, who is with us now and will receive us into His presence. Together, these songs encourage steadfast trust, joyful worship, and enduring hope.
Further reading: Romans 8:31–39; 2 Corinthians 4:7–18; 1 Peter 1:3–9
Reflection Questions:
1. How does Stephen's example challenge the way you respond when following Christ becomes difficult or costly?
2. What circumstances in your life require you to trust God's steadfast love even before you see a resolution?
Prayer: Father, thank You for Your steadfast love that never fails. When circumstances are difficult or uncertain, help me trust Your character rather than my feelings. Give me the courage of Stephen to stand faithfully for Christ and the confidence of David to praise You even while I wait. Fix my eyes on Jesus, my Savior and my hope, and help me live each day with faith, joy, and perseverance. Amen.

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