Read Acts 9
Acts 9 focuses on a minor character from the
previous two chapters: Saul. One of the most pivotal moments in the book of
Acts happens while Saul is travelling to Damascus to persecute believers (v.
2). Jesus revealed Himself to Saul. Meanwhile, the Lord also revealed Himself
in a vision to a believer named Ananias (not the same Ananias found in Acts 5).
He tells Ananias to go to Saul and heal his vision, which was lost in Saul’s
encounter with Jesus (v. 10-12). Ananias, knowing Saul’s reputation as a
persecutor, was hesitant (v. 13-14), but God calmed him by revealing the divine
plan for Saul (v. 15-16). Ananias obeyed (v. 17). Saul was healed and baptized
(v. 18) and immediately began to preach about Jesus (v. 19-22). The reactions
to Saul’s dramatic conversion were understandably mixed. Some wanted to kill
him (v. 24). Some doubted the authenticity of his faith (v. 26). Some helped
him (v. 25, 27, 30). Regardless of what people thought about Saul, his
conversion bore immediate fruit, leading to a time of peace and encouragement
for the church (v. 31). Acts 9 closes by re-telling two miracles brought by God
through Peter: Aeneas, a paralytic, was healed and Dorcas, a godly disciple,
was raised from the dead. News of these miracles spread, and many put their
faith in Jesus (v. 35, 42).
Journaling
and Prayer
1. God designed Saul in a particular way. Before he
knew Jesus, Saul used his zeal, leadership ability and intelligence to
persecute the church. After his conversion, God used these very characteristics
to advance the gospel. God designs each person with a unique set of
characteristics and abilities. When we use these on our own accord they are
often destructive. Ask God how He wants to use your unique design to advance
His kingdom. What is His vision and plan for you? What are God’s dreams for
you?
2. Pray a prayer of commitment. Offer your specific
gifts, strengths, personality, character and weaknesses to God. For example, if
you are a skilled mechanic or a compassionate listener, offer these to God for
His use. Acknowledge that you have nothing that the Lord did not give to you.
Ask the Holy Spirit to help you to dedicate yourself completely to God’s
purposes.
3. Pray for our school system. Ask God to prompt
students to use their interests and abilities for His glory. Pray for wisdom
for teachers to know how to encourage students to develop their abilities
without fostering pride. Pray for boldness in the faith of students, teachers
and administrators. In an increasingly secular school system the risks for
boldly living for Jesus are growing. Ask God to reveal that living in obedience
to Him is worth it, even when faced with suffering. Pray for the Holy Spirit to
work miracles in our schools that would lead many to Jesus.
