“…Brother Saul….”
Acts 9:17b
When Ananias received instructions from God to go to Saul, he didn’t exactly say, “no” but he did remind God in verses 13 and 14 of Acts 9 that Saul was a persecutor of God’s people and had come to Damascus with authority to take prisoners. Essentially, “Are you sure this is the guy, Lord?”
God responded to Ananias’ concern: “Go!” (Acts 9:15) God also highlighted the ministry He had in mind for the unlikely Saul.
Ananias responded to God in obedience: “Then Ananias went…” (Acts 9:17)
Placing his hands on Saul to pray, Ananias referred to him as Brother – communicating acceptance into God’s family.
Relying on God’s Word, Ananias believed in faith that Saul would be transformed by God into Paul –the evangelist chosen by God to carry the gospel to the Gentiles.
It wasn’t Saul who changed Ananias’ mind. It was God.
Who have you and I written off as candidates for God’s Kingdom and God’s Work?
Lord, forgive me for judging others.
Live Sent Action Point: Thank God for your salvation. Ask Him to identify the “most unlikely to accept Jesus” in your sphere and then pray for an opportunity to share the good news.
