July 2, 2009 - Acts 9:15

“But the Lord said to Ananias, ‘Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel.’” Acts 9:15.
Ananias, a follower of Jesus who lived in Damascus, was called by God to go to the house where Saul, (soon to be Paul), was staying. Ananias was understandably hesitant because of Saul’s reputation, and he responded to God in manner that appealed to His reason. In response, God tells Ananias to “Go!” and gives Ananias a brief vision of the calling on Saul’s life, in service to Jesus.
I appreciate the fact that God doesn’t just say “Go!” to Ananias, without any further explanation. This might have conveyed that God was frustrated with Ananias. Instead, it seems as though, while urging Ananias along, God allowed him to see some of what He had in store for the life of this man who had tormented the early followers of Jesus. Even though He didn’t need to do it, God brought Ananias in on what was to happen to Saul. And God firmly told him to get going to the house where Saul was staying.
Questions to consider: Have you sensed God speaking to you, urging you to do something? Was there a time sequence related to it, such as what Ananias experienced? Did you follow through with it? If you haven’t had that happen to you, would you like for that to happen? What would it take?
Prayer: Father, thank You so much for being involved with us in such a personal way that You, on occasion, speak directly to us, as You did with Ananias. Help me to have ears to hear You, and a heart to obey. Amen.