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The Truth About Growth

The story of Paul’s conversion is found in Acts chapter 9. This story recounts one of the biggest spiritual transformations recorded in the Bible. Before Paul’s infamous missionary journey began, he despised Christians and even plotted to murder them. It was on the road to Damascus that the Lord blinded him and confronted him for his evil doings. In verses 15-16, God tells Ananias, a follower of Jesus, that Paul was a “chosen instrument” and that he would have to suffer for the sake of proclaiming Jesus’ name. During Ananias’ visit with Paul, the Bible says that scales fell from Paul’s eyes, restoring his sight, and that he regained his strength and was baptized.

Growth is not easy. Really, it’s probably one of the most uncomfortable processes a person can ever go through. And the funny thing about it is that you normally never even realize you are growing until after you have come out of it. Still, as believers, growth is vital to our walk with Christ. It’s how he transforms us to become more like him. So whenever you are feeling a little bit of pressure in your life, or feel like you are being squeezed, you can find hope in knowing that you’re growing!

Paul had to literally go blind to grow into the person that God had called him to be. His transformation perfectly exemplifies how suffering eventually produces character, which produces hope!

Challenge: Ask God to either place you in an environment or surround you with people that will stimulate growth in your life. Chances are, the process will be super uncomfortable, but the outcome will leave you thankful and with a greater perspective on life than you had before.