Courageous Obedience
In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!”
“Yes, Lord,” he answered.
The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.”
“Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.”
But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”
Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, and after taking some food, he regained his strength. Acts 9:10-19
Insight
Yesterday, we delved into the remarkable conversion of Saul, witnessing how God's intervention turned a persecutor into a passionate follower of Christ. Today, we shift our focus to a lesser-known figure whose courageous obedience played a critical role in this extraordinary event.
In Acts 9, we are introduced to Annais, a disciple of the Lord living in Damascus. He was just an ordinary believer, going about his daily life when suddenly he received a vision from the Lord. The voice spoke to him, calling him by name, and instructing him to go to a specific house. Little did Annais know, he was about to play a pivotal role in the conversion of one of the most notorious persecutors of the early church.
Imagine the fear and hesitation that must have gripped Annais's heart as he received this divine assignment. Saul was known for his fierce opposition to the followers of Jesus. He was a man who instilled terror in the hearts of believers, dragging them from their homes and imprisoning them for their faith. Yet, despite the danger and uncertainty, Annais chose obedience over fear.
In the same way, God often calls us to step out in faith, even when the task seems daunting or the circumstances are unfavorable. He doesn't promise us a life free from challenges or risks, but He does promise to be with us every step of the way. When we trust in His guidance and obey His voice, He can use us to accomplish His purposes in ways we never imagined possible.
As Annais entered the house where Saul was staying, he laid his hands on him and spoke words of healing and restoration. In that moment, scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he was filled with the Holy Spirit. The persecutor became a disciple, and the enemy of the church became its greatest advocate.
This encounter between Annais and Saul serves as a powerful reminder of God's ability to transform hearts and lives. It shows us that no one is beyond the reach of His grace and mercy. Just as Saul's life was radically changed through the obedience of one faithful believer, God can use us to bring about transformation in the lives of those around us.
We should never underestimate the impact of our obedience to God's calling. Whether it's reaching out to a friend in need, speaking words of encouragement to a stranger, or standing up for what is right in the face of opposition, every act of obedience has the potential to bring about kingdom change.
Like Annais, we need to be ready to respond to God's prompting and step out in faith, trusting that He will equip us for whatever task He sets before us. And as we do, we’ll witness firsthand the miraculous power of God to transform hearts, reconcile relationships, and bring hope to the darkest places.
Reflection
Have you ever hesitated to obey God's calling because of fear or uncertainty? How can Annais's example of stepping out in faith inspire you to trust God more fully?
Consider a time when you witnessed God's transformative power in someone's life. How does Saul's conversion story and Annais's obedience encourage you to be more attentive to God's prompting in your own life and the lives of those around you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me the courage to step out in faith, trusting in Your guidance even when the path ahead seems uncertain. Help me to be attentive to Your voice and responsive to Your leading, knowing that You can use me to bring about transformation in the lives of others. In Jesus's name, amen.