3 Individuals Who Received and Followed God's Vision Part 1: Paul

Paul, once a fierce persecutor of Christians, thought he had a clear vision for his life. He was zealously hunting down followers of Christ, believing he was fulfilling his purpose. But on the road to Damascus, God intervened. In the midst of his mission to arrest more Christians, Paul had a life-changing encounter with God. God stopped him in his tracks and said, "Enough, Paul. Stop persecuting my people. Here is what I have planned for you."

"Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do." — Acts 9:6

After blinding Paul for three days, God sent Ananias to reveal His vision for Paul’s life. Paul’s past had been driven by a misguided mission, but God’s vision radically redirected his path.

"Go, for 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

Application: You might feel like you’re too far gone or that your past disqualifies you from receiving a vision from God. But if God can transform a man like Paul, who once opposed His kingdom, how much more can He do with you if you seek Him? Paul could never have imagined that he would go on to write one-third of the New Testament and plant the first churches that would spread the Gospel to the world. His life is proof that God’s vision is far greater than anything we could imagine.

"Things which the eye has not seen, and the ear has not heard,
And which have not entered the heart of man,
All that God has prepared for those who love Him." — 1 Corinthians 2:9

If you seek God’s vision for your life, He will take you on a journey beyond your wildest dreams, just as He did with Paul.

Action Step: Take a moment today to reflect on Paul's story. No matter where you are in life or how far you feel from God’s plan, remember that His vision for you is still possible. Spend time in prayer, asking God to reveal His purpose for your life, just as He did with Paul. Be open to letting go of your past mistakes or current plans, and allow God to redirect your path toward His greater vision.

• What things or relationships have you said yes to that are not God's plan for your life? Make a decision to align yourself back with God's plan just like Paul did.

Write down any impressions, thoughts, or feelings that come to mind during this time of prayer, and trust that God is working to shape your future. Seek His guidance daily, knowing that, like Paul, God can use you in ways you never thought possible.