Obedience – Obedience in the Face of Fear (365/68)
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Does fear ever hold you back from obeying God?
Saul’s reputation was well known among believers. He had fiercely persecuted followers of Christ, dragging men and women to prison and even approving the martyrdom of Stephen. Now, on the road to Damascus, Saul encountered the risen Christ and was left blind for a time.
We see in Acts 9 that the Lord spoke to a disciple named Ananias and gave him a surprising command—to go and meet Saul so that he might receive his sight. Understandably, Ananias hesitated. He knew Saul’s reputation and the harm he had done to believers.
Yet the Lord assured him that Saul was now a chosen instrument in His hands. Trusting God’s word over his fear, Ananias obeyed. He went to Saul, laid his hands on him, and called him “Brother Saul” (Acts 9:17). In that moment Saul received his sight, was filled with the Holy Spirit, and began the journey that would lead him to become one of the greatest messengers of the gospel.
Ananias’s obedience required courage. He stepped forward despite fear, trusting that God’s purposes were greater than his understanding. The same Jesus who changed Saul’s heart also strengthens us to obey when fear rises within us. When we trust Christ and take the step He asks of us, our obedience can become part of God’s transforming work in someone else’s life.
Pause and Ponder
What fears sometimes prevent you from obeying God’s prompting?
How does this story encourage you to trust God beyond your fears?
Who might God be asking you to reach out to in faith?
Courageous obedience often begins with a single step of trust.
Lord, when fear rises in my heart, give me courage to obey You, knowing that You are at work in ways I cannot see. Amen.
Extended Reading: Acts 9:10-19
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