Faith in God’s Authority

Acts 9:10-19a

¹⁰ Now there was a believer in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord spoke to him in a vision, calling, “Ananias!”

“Yes, Lord!” he replied.

¹¹ 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. ¹² I have shown him a vision of a man named Ananias coming in and laying hands on him so he can see again.”

¹³ “But Lord,” exclaimed Ananias, “I’ve heard many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers in Jerusalem! ¹⁴ And he is authorized by the leading priests to arrest everyone who calls upon your name.”

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. ¹⁶ And I will show him how much he must suffer for my name’s sake.”

¹⁷ So Ananias went and found Saul. He laid his hands on him and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” ¹⁸ Instantly something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he got up and was baptized. ¹⁹ Afterward he ate some food and regained his strength.

Ananias was afraid of Saul. He had heard of all the terrible things Saul had done to Christians in Jerusalem and how it was his intent to do the same in Damascus. He knew Saul was sent with authority from the chief priests and could cause much suffering.

Ananias was more afraid of God. He had heard the Good News preached to the people and the salvation offered and how it was God’s intent for the world. He knew God had sent His only Son with the Authority of the Most High and would bring much love.

I want to live like Ananias, serving God rather than the world. Knowing that each day is a good day because the King sits upon His throne!

Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your merciful love and compassion. That even a wretched person as Saul can find forgiveness in Jesus. Help us to be more like Ananias, loving You more than we love the world. Give us the courage to serve You each day and to act when Your Spirit prompts us.

In Your loving name, Jesus. Amen

Written by Sven Bessesen