What qualities of Ananias in Acts 22:12 should we emulate in our lives? Ananias in a Single Verse “Then a man named Ananias, a devout observer of the law who was highly regarded by all the Jews living there, came to me.” — Acts 22:12 Quality 1: Devotion to God’s Word • “Devout observer of the law” means Ananias didn’t treat Scripture as theory but as the rule of life. • Psalm 1:2; Psalm 119:97—delighting in and meditating on the law day and night. • James 1:22—actively doing the Word, not merely hearing it. Quality 2: A Life Above Reproach • “Highly regarded by all the Jews” points to consistent integrity visible to outsiders. • Proverbs 22:1—“A good name is more desirable than great riches.” • 1 Timothy 3:7—leaders (and all believers) are to have “a good reputation with outsiders.” • Living blamelessly opens doors for ministry; Paul welcomed Ananias precisely because of his reputation. Quality 3: Courageous Obedience • Acts 9:10-17 fills in the backstory: God told Ananias to visit Saul, a notorious persecutor. • Despite real danger, Ananias said, “Here I am, Lord” (v. 10) and went. • Joshua 1:9; Acts 5:29—when God speaks, faith chooses obedience over fear. • Emulate an obedience that trusts God more than circumstances. Quality 4: Compassionate Ministry • Acts 22:13-16 shows Ananias laying hands on Saul, calling him “Brother,” restoring sight, baptizing him, and commissioning him. • Galatians 6:1-2—restore those broken and burdened. • Jude 22-23—show mercy, rescuing others from sin’s fire. • Ananias models hands-on, grace-filled service to someone everyone else avoided. Quality 5: Availability to the Holy Spirit • Acts 9:10—“The Lord said to him in a vision…” He was spiritually attentive, ready to hear and respond. • Isaiah 6:8—“Here am I. Send me!” • Romans 8:14—those led by the Spirit are sons of God. Continual sensitivity positions us for divine appointments. Putting It into Practice • Immerse yourself daily in Scripture; let it shape every decision. • Guard your reputation with consistent honesty and kindness. • When God prompts—through His Word or His Spirit—step forward, even if the task feels risky. • Seek out the overlooked and hurting, offering tangible help and gospel hope. • Start each day with a simple commitment: “Lord, I’m available.” |
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