Thursday, January 11, 2024

In the journey of faith, the Apostle Paul’s transformation from a zealous persecutor of Christians to a fervent follower of Jesus stands as a testament to the power of God's grace and the active role each of us plays in our own spiritual journey.

Paul's journey began on the road to Damascus, where he was confronted by a blinding light, and the voice of Jesus asking, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" (Acts 9:4). Struck blind, Paul was led to the house of Ananias, where through prayer and divine intervention, his sight was restored. This miraculous healing marked the beginning of Paul's profound transformation.

It’s no wonder that when Paul began teaching with the disciples, confusion and skepticism followed. He was previously known to persecute followers of Jesus. How could he be proclaiming his faith in the one he had vigorously sought to destroy? The stunning nature of Paul's conversion left many bewildered, and some plotting to take his life in disbelief.

Paul continued to boldly preach salvation through Jesus, facing opposition and risking his life for the sake of the gospel. His spiritual transformation wasn't a one-time event; it was an ongoing process.

In 1 Corinthians 15:9, Paul humbly acknowledges his past, stating, "For I am the least of all the apostles. In fact, I’m not even worthy to be called an apostle after the way I persecuted God’s church."

Paul recognizes the gravity of his past sins, serving as a powerful reminder to us all of the redemptive nature of God's grace. Then he acknowledges the divine partnership in his spiritual transformation—God's grace and his own intentional effort.

In 1 Corinthians 15:10, Paul declares, "But whatever I am now, it is all because God poured out his special favor on me—and not without results. For I have worked harder than any of the other apostles; yet it was not I but God who was working through me by his grace."

How often do we find ourselves metaphorically blinded on the road to our own Damascus? We set out on a path, only to have God intervene and redirect us toward his perfect plan. Like Paul, we may need to be blinded to the life we thought we knew so that we can be healed and see the work God intended for us.

Questions:
In what areas of your life do you feel like you are metaphorically blind on the road to Damascus, needing God's intervention and redirection?

How does Paul's recognition of God's grace and his active participation challenge your perspective on your own spiritual transformation?

Next Steps:
Commit to a daily prayer walk for the next 5 days, seeking God's guidance, healing, and revelation. As you walk, intentionally surrender your plans, allowing God to redirect you toward his perfect purpose.

21 Days of Prayer Day 4 — Surrender

Today’s Prayer Focus: To Surrender to Him  (Romans 12:1)

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for all you have given me: all the time, resources, relationships, and abilities. I now give them back to you. I surrender it all. I am only a steward—it all belongs to you. God, guide my actions. Help me to listen for and obey your directions. Teach me to trust you and use what you have given me according to your will. May your will be done in me and through me. Amen.

Series Theme Verse:

2 Peter 1:3
By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence.

This post was written by Monique Myers, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.