We must trust God's sovereign timing even in grief and sore trials, realizing that life is not random, but God-appointed.

Submitting is repugnant to the carnal mind. The church is no place for uncompromising people who demand their own way.

Affliction is a necessary aspect of life, yielding strength of character, while ease and comfort weaken us. Christ was perfected as High Priest through suffering.

Fearing God leads to a determination not to bring shame on God's name or offending and hurting the relationship between God and us.

Stephen's early martyrdom stands as a striking example of faith and commitment, to the extent that even Christ stood as He witnessed the deacon's sacrifice.