“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
I love reading Acts 9 about Saul’s conversion. Saul was an educated Jew who didn’t believe Jesus was the Son of God. He dragged Christians out of their homes and put them in prison because he wanted to get rid of “the believers.” One day, as he was traveling from Jerusalem to Damascus, Jesus confronted him. “As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” – Acts 9:3-4 (NIV). Saul believed in the vision and changed his ways.
When Saul sets out from Jerusalem, the gospel author Luke begins to refer to him as Paul – the Greek version of the Hebrew name “Saul.” Paul’s conversion is an example of assurance that we can change. No matter how much we have sinned, are bogged down in the deepest darkness, and living the most wretched lifestyles, He is there for us.
Paul’s life-changing experience on the Damascus Road led to his baptism and instruction in the Christian faith. He suffered persecution, physical pain, and martyrdom, but he never stopped preaching God’s Word. He believed and taught that Jesus was the Son of God.
When God brings a person of faith to Jesus, He already knows in what capacity He wants to use that person. Paul’s conversion proves that God can transform anyone He chooses. Don’t be afraid, for fear incapacitates us. “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
Isn’t it comforting to know that we are given strength when we need it most? He gives us the chance to change our ways, to better ourselves, and to lead a Christian life. Look what He did for Saul. When you stop and think about Saul’s life persecuting Christians and then becoming a Christian himself, how can a person not believe that their lifestyles, their problems, whatever is defeating them, cannot be changed? Paul’s life is one of wonder and amazement at what Christ can do for us.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, Your Word is an inspiration to all of us. Through Your Word, You give us comfort, assurance, and the promise of everlasting life when we come to You repenting, confessing, and baptizing. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Written by: Laurie Davis
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