Stephen faced an angry mob that wanted to kill him because of his witness to Christ. But he didn't lose his nerve - he boldly gave a long speech describing God's work in and through Jesus. What gave him courage? He was an ordinary man, but one filled with faith. It was this faith, as well as the Spirit, that made him as solid as a rock. We don't have to be superhuman to face trials and struggles - being a genuine person of faith is enough.

Endurance and patience are the keys to spiritual success. When we are faced with adversity, painful struggles, or personal failures, it is easy to give up. We can become bitter and cynical, and maybe even lose our faith. Matthew wrote of a time when followers of Jesus would be persecuted terribly, and even betrayed by relatives and friends. He urged them not to be afraid, for the Holy Spirit would inspire them to witness to the faith and would also grant them courage. Life is a race - we don't have to be the first - or even the second or third to cross the finish line to win, but we do have to at least finish. This applies to big matters like persecution, as well as smaller ones like the struggles of life. The ones that stay with it and don't give up are the winners - always.