Sometimes we're Saul, sometimes we're Ananias (Acts 9)

God intercedes and brings people into our lives when we need confirmation. This is our last week of the BSF Revelation study and we're doing many new things this coming year for the Exile and Return study. I like to pray over the lesson and think about the Group Leaders and their members interaction. Specifically Question 14 asks, "In what way is God calling you to a deeper trust or greater confidence in His plan for your life and this world?" As members answer this question honestly and share it with the group, we can also be receiving a confirmation if we pray specifically and listen to the Lord. This process is illustrated in Acts 9:10. 

I know in my life, Scott S. was like Ananias to me as was David H. David reached out to me after so many years to reconnect and I'm looking forward to that. 

Seeking (with a salty thirst): His Kingdom and His Righteousness (Matt 5:6,13,6:33, Jer 29:13)

• Saul's version: Saul was uttering threats with every breath and was eager to kill the Lord’s followers - Acts 9:1
• Ananias version:  Now there was a believer (disciple) in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord spoke to him in a vision, calling, “Ananias!” - “Yes, Lord!” he replied. - Acts 9:10

God blesses characteristics of people with promises (Matthew 5:1-12)

• Saul's version: He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?” -  “Who are you, lord?” Saul asked. - And the voice replied, “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting! Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” (Acts 9:4-6)
• Ananias version:  The Lord said, “Go over to Straight Street, to the house of Judas. When you get there, ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul. He is praying to me right now. I have shown him a vision of a man named Ananias coming in and laying hands on him so he can see again.” - Acts 9:11-12

40 ways to be blessed

Waiting for the promises of God, filling time with love not distraction

Lord help me to wait for you in love, to engage the people you put in my life and heart, with the Spirit of Truth. Amen. 

I often talk back to God like Ananias and the "stay at home" brother of the prodigal. 

“But Lord,” exclaimed Ananias, “I’ve heard many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers in Jerusalem! And he is authorized by the leading priests to arrest everyone who calls upon your name.” Acts 9:13-14

I need to go back to responding "Yes Lord!" Acts 9:10, I'm a believing disciple and will trust in your Way!