Waiting on God to hear

Press the play button to watch the video above or press 'more' to read the transcript of the daily devotion below. Please read Acts 9:1-19 (use your own Bible or use the link above to access the in-App Bible).

The conversion of Saul is probably the best-known Christian conversion story of all. A tale of one man’s quest to destroy Christians, who makes a sudden and remarkable 180-degree turnaround, and becomes the most prominent leader and letter writer of the early church. It is certainly inspirational.

Although Saul, who becomes Paul, is the main character in this passage, he is not the only person involved in this pivotal experience of God. There are men travelling with Saul who are rendered ‘speechless’, who led a blinded Saul to the city. There is Ananias, whose response to the instruction to seek out the Church’s greatest persecutor is one of some apparent reluctance. And of course there is Jesus, who appears to them all in voice, or vision, and who answers their questions: to Saul “Get up and go”, and to Ananias “Go! This man is my chosen instrument…”

In prayer, we petition God for our needs or the needs of others and the world. We might ask for guidance, or bring our feelings or fears, and seek comfort. But how often do we remember to ask for patience, and really take the time to listen for an answer? Or for preparedness, especially to have our worldview challenged or changed as Saul’s was? 

The experience of conversion, for those who are open to discover the path God has set before them, is not usually a one-off, or a major life shift as it was for Saul. It happens again and again; in the countless times we wait on God to hear the word ‘Go!’ To share our faith in new places or with a new person. 

What question do you have for the Lord today? And are you prepared to wait patiently for an answer, even one that might challenge your worldview or send you to uncomfortable places? And notice that, like Saul, you are not alone. God will ensure there are others around you to guide you in moments you can’t see a way ahead and bring others to you to help discern the way.

Let us pray: Lord, help us to wait on your Word and hear your call today, that we will be obedient to the path set before us. Amen