How does Ananias' reaction connect with other biblical examples of doubt or reluctance? Ananias’ Hesitation in Context “Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem.” (Acts 9:13) • Ananias knows Saul’s violent reputation. • He wrestles with fear and logic even after receiving a clear word from the Lord. • His moment of pause places him in a long biblical line of servants who hesitated before obeying. Parallels Across Scripture • Moses – “But Moses asked God, ‘Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?’” (Exodus 3:11) – Felt inadequate and unqualified. • Gideon – “Pardon me, my Lord,” Gideon replied, “but how can I deliver Israel? Indeed, my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the youngest in my father’s house.” (Judges 6:15) – Questioned God’s choice of him. • Jeremiah – “Ah, Lord GOD,” I said, “I surely do not know how to speak, for I am only a child!” (Jeremiah 1:6) – Cited personal limitations to avoid the mission. • Jonah – “Jonah, however, got up to flee to Tarshish, away from the presence of the LORD…” (Jonah 1:3) – Actively ran from God’s assignment. • Peter – “No, Lord! For I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.” (Acts 10:14) – Initially resisted a command that challenged his prior convictions. Common Threads in Their Reluctance • A focus on past threats or personal weakness rather than on God’s promise. • Honest dialogue with the Lord—God allows questions but still expects obedience. • Each servant eventually steps forward, proving the Lord’s reliability and power. Encouragement for Today • The pattern shows that hesitation does not disqualify; yielding to God’s word does. • Like Ananias, believers can trust that divine commands come with divine enablement. • God often chooses the cautious to showcase His sufficiency over human fear. |
    |