The Acts of Disciples
They Obey God’s Spirit – Part II
Scripture Reading: Acts 9:1-19
Key Verses: Acts 9:15
But the Lord said, “Go, for Saul is My chosen instrument to take My message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel.”
The complete story of Saul’s conversion, and the change to use his Roman name Paul, includes another man. His name was Ananias, and all we know about this man is that he was a “believer in Damascus”. The Spirit of Jesus went to Ananias and gave these instructions:
The Lord said, “Go over to Straight Street, to the house of Judas. When you get there, ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul. He is praying to Me right now. I have shown him a vision of a man named Ananias coming in and laying hands on him so he can see again.” (Acts 9:11-12)
The only way to relate to Ananias’ situation is to think of the meanest person you know, and then imagine God asking you to go minister to that person. You would have questions just like Ananias did:
“But Lord,” exclaimed Ananias, “I’ve heard many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers in Jerusalem! And he is authorized by the leading priests to arrest everyone who calls upon Your name.” (Acts 9:13-14)
All of us have probably had moments where we wonder if God really wants us to do what we feel He is asking. The evil one puts all kinds of arguments in our minds to not do what the Lord instructs.
I am glad the Lord was patient with Ananias and gave him more information concerning Paul’s conversion and future use in God’s Kingdom. God is patient with us as well when we struggle to obey Him. However, we must finally submit to His will, if we want God to bless us as we walk with Him.
No matter that scary thoughts fill our minds, we can claim God’s promises that we can do what He asks. A great promise to claim in these situations is Philippians 4:13, where God promises us that we can do all things through the strength of Christ Jesus.
When the devil puts scenarios in your mind about the things that could go wrong, here is another great promise to remember: God works all things out for your good (Romans 8:28). That is not a promise that everything that happens to you will be good, but rather that God takes even the bad things and ultimately makes them turn out for your good.
Let God’s promises calm your mind and grant you peace. A great one liner to remember is: “Where God guides, He provides”. That is not a Scripture verse, but it is a scriptural truth!
Father, I give my life to You as a “living sacrifice”. I am willing to go where you want me to go and do what you want me to do. In Jesus’s Name I pray, amen.