Opposition arose, however…they could not stand up against his [Stephen’s] wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke. (Acts 6:9–10, NIV 1984).
My Musings – This is not unique to Stephen. “On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. But…do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time, you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.” (Matthew 10:18–20, NIV 1984).
We may very well face this at some time. So, we need not have a “spirit of timidity.” But this does not mean we should we cavalier or unprepared, if (when) that time comes. We should “always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks [us] to give the reason for the hope that [we] have. But [we should] do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience.” (1 Peter 3:15–16, NIV 1984). The things “you will be given what to say” will come much easier if they are “hidden in your heart” to begin with.
My Advice – Notice that they could not stand up against Stephen’s wisdom [what he had “hidden in his heart”] or the “Spirit by whom he spoke” [the “Spirit of your Father speaking through you”].
How much have you “hidden in your heart?” The time is short. You need not “worry about what to say or how to say it,” but you should “always be prepared to give an answer.” At “that time,” the Holy Spirit will have your “six,” your “point” and both flanks.
The Brew Is A Musing 