A test in obedience

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Read Acts 9:10-19. 

The biggest nemesis of the early church was a guy known as Saul of Tarsus. His attacks upon the church were compared to how a wild animal tears open its prey. This Jewish rabbi was relentless in his desire to destroy the church. However, on his way to Damascus to arrest Christians he is converted to faith in Christ.  

When he arrives in Damascus, he is blind and helpless. It was at this time that God speaks to a faithful believer in Damascus known as Ananias. He is told to go to a particular house and ask for Saul of Tarsus. 

Ananias has no idea that Saul has been converted. All he knows is that Saul has come to Damascus to wreak havoc upon the church. Initially, Ananias questions God’s assignment for him. However, after further explanation he chooses to obey and to leave the consequences up to God. He subsequently goes to where Saul is staying, lays hands on him, and commissions him for a ministry that will change the world.  

Are you willing to obey what God says even if it doesn’t make sense to you? Are you willing to be obedient and leave the results in the hands of God? 

This devotion is based on Marty McLain's book "The Crown has Fallen: A Study of the Kings of Judah." 

grace, obedience, Paul