Acts 22: 9,10 – “And those who were with me indeed saw the light and were afraid, but they did not hear the voice of Him who spoke to me. 10 So I said, ‘What shall I do, Lord?’ And the Lord said to me, ‘Arise and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all things which are appointed for you to do.’”
Paul is sharing his testimony of conversion on the road to Damascus before a crowd that moments ago had been beating him and trying to kill him. While the story itself is interesting and veery compelling, there are several principles in it that are important for us to understand along life’s journey.
1. There will be those who are a part of your journey who will not understand your journey. Paul’s companions saw the same light he did but verse 10 tell us that they did not hear the voice. Unless others around you “hear the voice” they won’t understand your call and purpose. Don’t expect them to.
2. You have a divine appointment. Verse 10 says that Paul would be told what he was appointed to do. Are you fulfilling your appointment?
3. Your purpose is tied to your obedience. If Paul doesn’t pay attention to “the voice” and obey, he would miss the appointment. Pay attention to what you’re supposed to do because one step leads to another.
4. You are the key to someone else’s breakthrough. Ananias is a key figure in Paul’s conversion. He is to announce to Paul that he is to receive his sight. There is someone in your journey who needs you. They need a breakthrough and you’re the one called by God to bring it to them.
5. You are to be a witness. Ananias says to Paul in verse 15, “For you will be a witness for Him to everyone of what you have seen and heard” (ESV).
Your experiences are meant to be shared as a testimony of God’s power. If He did it for you He can do it for them. Don’t miss these opportunities along life’s journey. They can change someone’s life.