How can we be instruments of God's healing, like Ananias in Acts 22:13? The Snapshot of Acts 22:13 “ “He came and stood beside me and said, ‘Brother Saul, receive your sight.’ And at that very moment I could see him.” ” What God Did Through Ananias • Spoke a clear, Spirit-given word • Laid hands on Saul in faith • Watched God restore sight instantly • Commissioned Saul for future ministry (v. 14-15) Listening for God’s Prompting • Acts 9:10-12 shows Ananias receiving a specific vision—he was tuned to God before the assignment arrived. • John 10:27—“My sheep listen to My voice.” Cultivate daily Bible reading and prayer so God’s nudges are recognizable. • Romans 12:1-2—offer your body as a living sacrifice; a renewed mind discerns God’s will. Overcoming Hesitation with Obedience • Ananias initially feared Saul’s reputation, yet surrendered (Acts 9:13-17). • Joshua 1:9—“Be strong and courageous… the LORD your God is with you.” Courage flows from God’s presence, not self-confidence. Speaking Words that Heal • “Brother Saul”—Ananias addressed the former persecutor as family, releasing forgiveness and acceptance. • Proverbs 18:21—life and death are in the tongue. Our words can begin someone’s healing before any miracle happens. • Ephesians 4:29—use speech that builds up. The Ministry of Touch • Mark 16:17-18—believers “will lay their hands on the sick, and they will be made well.” • James 5:14—elders anoint and pray; God raises up. Practical steps: – Ask permission; respect boundaries. – Keep the focus on Christ, not technique. – Expect God to act, yet trust His timing and purpose. Partnering with the Holy Spirit • Acts 1:8—power comes when the Spirit fills believers. Healing is never self-generated; we are conduits. • 1 Corinthians 12:9—gifts of healing distributed “as He determines.” Seek fullness of the Spirit daily (Ephesians 5:18). Everyday Availability • Luke 10:33-34—like the Good Samaritan, notice needs on ordinary routes. • Small acts—meals, listening, practical help—often open doors for prayer and restoration. • Colossians 3:17—whatever you do, do in Jesus’ name; the mundane becomes ministry. Faith that Works through Love • Galatians 5:6—faith expresses itself through love; compassion fuels supernatural ministry. • 1 John 3:18—love “with actions and in truth.” Healing often begins with a heart moved by another’s pain. Living as Modern-Day Ananiases • Stay in close fellowship with God. • Keep your heart yielded and your schedule interruptible. • Speak life-giving words and offer a healing touch when prompted. • Trust the Spirit to supply power and results. By these simple, obedient steps, believers today become instruments of God’s healing, just as Ananias was for Saul. |