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Acts-9

The Story of Saul: A Devotional Study on Acts 9​

Introduction​

In the ninth chapter of Acts, we witness the transformation of Saul, a fierce enemy of Christ and His followers, into Paul, a devoted servant of God. This dramatic story draws us in, reminding us of God's strength, mercy, and power to change us. As we delve into Acts 9, let's explore its depths and spiritual lessons.

Section 1: Who is Saul? (Acts9:1-2)​

Devotional Thought: Before his conversion, Saul was known as a violent persecutor of Christians. His zeal for Judaism was so intense that he heartily approved of Stephen's execution, a follower of Christ. But God had a different plan for Saul. May we heed the lesson here, that we too should be mindful of our motivations and ensured that our zeal is for God's Kingdom.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are there areas in your life where you are overzealous, perhaps in a way that's not wholly honoring to God?
  • Ask the Holy Spirit to help you align your zeal with God's will moving forward.

Section 2: The Road to Damascus (Acts 9:3-6)​

Devotional Thought: As Saul traveled the road to Damascus, he encountered a blinding light and heard a voice: "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" The message was clear: Christ was speaking. May we listen for His voice in our trials and difficulties. May we remember that it's often in the midst of struggles that we hear Him most clearly.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are you currently facing struggles that feel as though they're the bitter end of your story?
  • Can you hear Christ amidst the noise and uncertainty? Trust that He draws near in the midst of difficulties and hardships.

Section 3: An Introduction to Ananias (Acts 9:7-19)​

Devotional Thought: Ananias, a devout disciple, received a vision that Saul would become a follower of Christ. At first, Ananias was hesitant, but he obeyed God's will. May we learn from Ananias to trust in the plans of the Lord, no matter how unforeseeable, or even unfathomable they may seem.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are you being called to trust in God's plans, even as they currently seem questionable? Trust that His will is perfect and sufficient.

Section 4: Saul's Physical and Spiritual Transition (Acts 9:17-22)​

Devotional Thought: Saul's physical blindness was a precursor to his spiritual reawakening. May we realize that the trials we face in our earthly bodies often parallel the spiritual trials we encounter. Let us trust in Christ during both, thinking of His provision and grace.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are you currently facing struggles in your physical health? Do they reflect spiritual trials you're facing?
  • Hold onto the hope that Christ is providing for your needs, as you walk through the difficulties that you're currently facing.

Section 5: Paul's First Steps of Faith (Acts 9:23-31)​

Devotional Thought: Paul's conversion was not yet complete, as we see him being accused, beaten, and imprisoned as soon as he returned to Jerusalem. May we remember that the Christian walk is not without challenges, but may we also remember that our faith will grow as a result of the trials we face.

Reflection Questions:

  • Have you faced trials that initially threatened your faith but ultimately strengthened it?
  • Trust that, as a result of the trials we face, our faith will grow more substantial and rooted.

Conclusion:​

This chapter reveals to us that a person's past does not determine their future. We too, as believers, can be forgiven and transformed by Christ's power. Just as he transformed Saul into Paul, He can transform us. Let's hold onto the hope that Christ strengthens and sustains us through all of life's challenges. May we remember that our faithful God can and will take us through our struggles and transform us from the inside out, just as He did with Paul.