Read Acts 9:1-19
*We encourage you to read today’s passage in your own personal Bible or at the link above.
Discover
1. What was Saul like before his conversion on the road to Damascus?
2. What condition was he in when he got to Damascus (verse 9)?
3. What sacrifices and actions did Ananias take to be with Saul?
Respond
Saul was a man in desperate need of a Savior, and God met him in a radical way. Saul’s reputation as a persecutor of Christians preceded him, and when God called Ananias to lay hands on him, Ananias had to overcome his own bias and fear. When he arrived in Damascus, his response was simple yet powerful. He walked in and put his hands on Saul. This single act showed that the power wasn’t so much in what Ananias said, but in his willingness to go and be with Saul in his hour of darkness, isolation, and confusion. He displayed devotion to being present.
One of the greatest weapons the enemy will use against us is isolation. But we flourish as humans when we’re rightly connected with God and people. When we’re isolated, we’re prone to temptation, discouragement, self-absorption, and destructive habits. Through the power of presence, we’re strong.
What can you do next? Here are some steps:
How You Can Pray
Thank God for His presence that’s with you everywhere, all the time. Thank Him for the people He has brought into your life when you’ve needed the presence of another person with you. Pray for eyes to see people and places where you can bring the power of presence to others, especially those who might be isolated, hurting, or discouraged.
What You Can Do
If someone came to mind during your prayer time, take a step today to reach out and let them know they’re not alone. If you know someone who is housebound, consider helping with housework or yardwork or simply sit with them and listen. If you can’t be with them physically, send a text, call, or write an encouraging note.