Former Blackout Artist

But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.” – Acts 9:15-16

God’s plan for Saul (later Paul) was nothing short of extraordinary. Saul had been a man filled with hatred, zealously persecuting Christians and tearing apart the early church. But God saw something different. He chose Saul – not for who he was at that moment, but for who he would become through the power of His grace.

This passage reminds us that God’s call often defies logic. Who would choose a man like Saul, with blood on his hands and a reputation for cruelty, to spread the gospel of peace? God would – and He did. Saul’s transformation from persecutor to preacher reminds us that no one is beyond redemption. His past, though dark, became the backdrop against which God’s mercy and power shined brightest.

Saul’s calling also came with a cost. He would endure suffering, rejection, and hardships as he carried out his mission. But that suffering was not wasted, not one bit! It deepened his dependence on Christ and shaped him into a servant willing to lay everything down for the gospel, even his own life.

Paul’s story teaches us two profound truths that we would do well to never forget.

1. God’s grace has no limits. No matter how far we’ve strayed, how broken we are, or how unworthy we feel, God’s mercy can reach us.
2. God calls us for His purposes, not our qualifications. He doesn’t choose us because we’re perfect or have it all together. He chooses us out of love and equips us through His Spirit.

Just like Paul, we are chosen to live for something greater than ourselves. Whether we face suffering, rejection, or uncertainty, we can trust that God’s purpose for our lives will ultimately glorify Him and transform us into His instruments.

What parts of your past or present feel unredeemable? Bring them before God today and ask Him to transform them into a testimony of His grace. You may say, “But you don’t know the things I’ve done, you don’t know my history, you don’t know how many people I’ve hurt and how broken I am.”

Your “but” is not greater than “But God.”

Today’s Prayer: Lord, thank You for choosing me, not because of who I am, but because of who You are. Help me to trust in Your purpose for my life, even when it comes with challenges. Use me as Your instrument to carry Your name to those around me. Amen.