Key Passage
“Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?’ And he said, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ And he said, ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.’” (Acts 9:3-6, ESV)
The encounter on the road to Damascus offers profound insights into the Christian calling, demonstrating that God knows us intimately, sets us apart for His purposes, and assigns us a unique mission.
1. The Lord Knew Me
The calling of the Christian begins with the truth that God intimately knows us, even when we are far from Him.
• Acts 9:3-4 Context
Saul was “on his way,” actively opposing Jesus by persecuting His followers. Yet, Jesus interrupted Saul’s journey, calling him by name: “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” This direct address reveals the personal nature of God’s knowledge and attention toward us.
• Supporting Scripture
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” (Jeremiah 1:5, ESV)
Just as God knew Jeremiah and Saul, He knows each of us. Our calling originates from this deep, intimate knowledge.
• Reflection
Even when we are walking in opposition to God’s will, He knows our hearts, names, and potential. This should encourage us to trust His plans.
2. The Lord Set Me Apart
God calls individuals not because of their merits but because of His divine purpose.
• Acts 9:5-6 Context
In Saul’s interaction with Jesus, we see his immediate submission: “Who are you, Lord?” This moment marked the beginning of Saul’s separation from his old life and consecration to a new purpose. He was no longer to live as a Pharisee enforcing the law but as an apostle to the Gentiles.
• Supporting Scripture
“But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles…” (Galatians 1:15-16a, ESV)
Paul himself acknowledged later in life that his calling was not an accident but a part of God’s eternal plan.
• Reflection
Each Christian has been set apart for a purpose unique to their life and gifting. Recognizing this truth should inspire confidence in fulfilling God’s plan.
3. The Lord Gave Me a Job That Only I Can Do
The Christian calling is not generic but tailored to the individual. God equips us for specific assignments.
• Acts 9:6 Context
Jesus told Saul: “Rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” God’s instructions for Saul were specific, though revealed progressively. His calling to become the apostle to the Gentiles was one that only he could fulfill.
• Supporting Scripture
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10, ESV)
Every believer is crafted uniquely for their God-ordained work. Saul’s education, zeal, and Roman citizenship positioned him perfectly for his ministry.
• Reflection
Our experiences, abilities, and circumstances are tools God uses to accomplish His unique purpose for us. This gives value to every season of life, whether preparation or fulfillment.
Conclusion: Trusting God’s Call
The story of Saul’s conversion demonstrates that God calls us personally, sets us apart for His glory, and equips us for a unique mission. Like Saul, our response should be one of immediate surrender and obedience.
Reflection Questions
1. How does the fact that God knows you intimately shape your view of His plans for your life?
2. In what ways has God set you apart for His purposes, even in areas you may not yet understand?
3. What specific “good works” do you feel God is calling you to walk in today?
Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for knowing me, setting me apart, and calling me for a purpose that only I can fulfill. Help me to trust Your plans, listen for Your voice, and follow Your direction with a willing heart. Amen.
JOY UNSPEAKABLE
I have found His grace is all complete;
He supplieth every need.
While I sit and learn at Jesus’ feet,
I am free, yes, free indeed.
Refrain:
It is joy unspeakable and full of glory,
Full of glory, full of glory.
It is joy unspeakable and full of glory;
O the half has never yet been told!
2
I have found the pleasure I once craved;
It is joy and peace within.
What a wondrous blessing! I am saved
From the awful gulf of sin. [Refrain]
3
I have found that hope so bright and clear,
Living in the realm of grace.
O the Savior’s presence is so near;
I can see His smiling face. [Refrain]
4
I have found the joy no tongue can tell,
How its waves of glory roll!
It is like a great o’erflowing well,
Springing up within my soul. [Refrain]
Joy to the world
Joy to the world the Lord is come
Let earth receive her king
Let every heart prepare Him room
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven and Heaven and nature sing
Joy to the world the savior reigns
Let men their songs employ
While fields and floods rocks hills and plains
Repeat the sounding joy
Repeat the sounding joy
Repeat, repeat the sounding joy
He rules the world with truth and grace
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness
And wonders of His love
And wonders of His love
And wonders, wonders of His love
Give Thanks
Give thanks with a grateful heart,
give thanks to the Holy One;
give thanks, because he’s given Jesus Christ, his Son.
Give thanks with a grateful heart,
give thanks to the Holy One;
give thanks, because he’s given Jesus Christ, his Son.
And now let the weak say ‘I am strong’,
let the poor say ‘I am rich’,
because of what the Lord has done for us;
and now let the weak say ‘I am strong’,
let the poor say ‘I am rich’,
because of what the Lord has done for us. Give thanks…