FRIDAY April 22, 2022

I Am Jesus

And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.”
Acts 9:5

Reflecting on Stephen’s death, who else was there? Interestingly, it was Saul: And the witnesses laid down their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul (Acts 7:58). Saul persecuted Christians. His name in the Hebrew language means “asked for.” He believed he was doing right in having Christians arrested. In his zealous persecution, Saul even had them killed. Before Saul came to Christ, we see a true reflection of his character.

In Acts 9, we witness an incredible change in the life of Saul. On the way to Damascus, seeking to threaten Christians, he had an encounter with Jesus Christ. Suddenly, a light shone around him from heaven, and the Lord spoke to Saul, saying, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting...” (Acts 9:5). In persecuting Christians, Saul was persecuting Christ! He was fighting against God when he needed to submit his life to Him.

Saul was instantly converted to Christ. Yet he was left blind and had to be led by the hand to Damascus. In a vision, the Lord spoke to a disciple named Ananias. He was to pray and lay hands on Saul so he could receive his sight. Although apprehensive, since he knew Saul persecuted Christians, he obediently went with the knowledge that Saul was now a chosen vessel for God.

Saul’s name was changed to Paul, which means “little one.” This reflected his true humility in accepting the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Before Paul started his ministry, it is believed he went to Arabia for three years to give himself time in the Word and prayer. Paul wisely waited on God.

It is futile to fight against God, but people do. They resist Him and the conviction of the Holy Spirit. Stop fighting and surrender. God has an amazing plan; do not remain blind to it. Make Jesus Lord of your life and let the adventure begin.

The greatest adventure in life – knowing God – begins at the Cross of Christ and ends with a “Hallelujah!”
~David Jeremiah~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!