Scripture Focus: Acts 9:1–20, especially verse 15 – "But the Lord said to him, ‘Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel.’"
Devotional
In today's world, your past often dictates your future—at least in the eyes of society. Background checks, social media records, and old mistakes can feel like permanent stains. Cancel culture thrives on digging up what people did wrong. Yet, Acts 9 introduces us to Saul—a man with a violent and public past—whom God not only redeems but also commissions.
Saul (later Paul) was actively persecuting the Church. He wasn’t just complicit; he was leading the charge. In modern terms, he would have been a trending topic for all the wrong reasons—branded a threat, feared by the faithful. But on the road to Damascus, God interrupts Saul’s mission with grace and redirects him with purpose.
Ananias, the disciple called to pray for Saul, protested at first—understandably. But God replied in verse 15:
“Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine...”
This divine declaration reshapes everything. It shows us that:
- God’s purpose is not limited by our past. He doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called.
- Your redemption is not a detour—it’s part of the mission. Saul's transformation became the cornerstone of his testimony.
- What disqualifies you in man’s eyes often qualifies you in God’s. Who better to preach grace than someone who once persecuted it?
In contemporary life, many feel too tainted by past sins, failures, or reputations to step into spiritual purpose. But Paul’s life is a bold statement that grace redefines identity. He went on to become the author of over a dozen New Testament books and a pillar of the early Church—not because he was perfect, but because he was willing.
Reflection Question:
What parts of your past are you allowing to disqualify you from your purpose? Can you surrender them today to the One who calls you His chosen vessel?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for Your grace that finds us, transforms us, and uses us for Your glory. Help me not to run from my past, but to allow You to redeem it. May my life be a testimony that You still use broken vessels to pour out Your perfect will. In Jesus’ name, amen.
0 Comments