Read: Acts 9:1-25
Think: So many details of Paul’s conversion story hinge on obedience. First, Jesus speaks to Saul through a light from heaven and tells him to go to Damascus. Paul, though temporarily blinded, obeys. Meanwhile, the Lord visits a believer in Damascus, Ananias, in a vision and tells him to go to Saul in order that Saul might regain his sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit. Ananias obeys. The account reads, “Instantly something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes and he regained his sight. He got up and was baptized. . . . Saul stayed with the believers in Damascus for a few days. And immediately he began preaching about Jesus…”
Act: Obedience is required of not only those who hear the Gospel for the first time but of the mature believer, as well. In the case of Saul and Ananias, for God’s will to play out powerfully, both men had to immediately obey the voice of God—not argue, not procrastinate, not delay. Note to self: Obedience to Christ is a non-negotiable, life-long characteristic of both new converts and seasoned believers! How would you rate yourself on an “obedience” scale of 1-10 (10 being highly obedient)? Today, ask God to show you one area in which He has been asking you to obey Him (ex: make amends, attend a prayer meeting, invite a co-worker to church, etc.). Then act on it.
Pray: Dear Lord, cause my heart to become more and more obedient to your marching orders. Let my responses to your requests be immediate. Cause my heart and mind and ears to respond quickly when You ask me to obey You. Oh, how I love You. Amen.
Be full of faith today!
