What steps can we take to be ready for God's direction like Ananias? An Ordinary Disciple Ready for an Extraordinary Assignment “Now there was a disciple in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, ‘Ananias!’ ‘Here I am, Lord,’ he answered.” (Acts 9:10) Step 1: Live as a Devoted Disciple • Ananias is introduced simply as “a disciple.” Steady, everyday faithfulness positions us for sudden direction. • Luke 9:23 — “If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.” Daily alignment keeps the heart tuned. Step 2: Stay Positioned in God’s Presence • Acts 9 shows Ananias available in prayer, receptive to a vision. • 1 Samuel 3:10 — “Speak, for Your servant is listening.” Regular, unrushed time with God trains spiritual ears. • Psalm 27:4 — lingering in the Lord’s presence shapes sensitivity. Step 3: Maintain a Responsive “Here I Am” Attitude • Immediate, unhesitating reply: “Here I am, Lord.” • Isaiah 6:8 echoes the same posture. • Practical ways: – Begin each day verbally surrendering plans to the Lord. – Keep short accounts—confess sin quickly to preserve unhindered fellowship. Step 4: Filter Every Impression Through Scripture • The Lord’s instructions never contradict His Word. • Acts 17:11 — the Bereans “examined the Scriptures daily” to confirm guidance. • Colossians 3:16 — “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you.” The more Scripture stored, the clearer the filter. Step 5: Obey Promptly, Even When It Stretches You • Ananias is sent to the persecutor Saul—high risk, yet he goes (Acts 9:17). • James 1:22 — be doers, not merely hearers. • Delay often breeds doubt; swift obedience keeps momentum with God. Step 6: Walk in Love Toward All People • Laying hands on Saul, Ananias calls him “Brother Saul” (Acts 9:17). Love overcomes prejudice. • Matthew 5:44 — “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” A heart that loves is ready for unlikely assignments. • Galatians 6:10 — “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone.” Step 7: Trust God for the Bigger Picture • Saul becomes Paul, apostle to the nations—fruit Ananias couldn’t foresee. • Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the LORD with all your heart…He will make your paths straight.” • Obedience today intersects with God’s larger redemptive plan tomorrow. Putting It All Together 1. Cultivate steady discipleship. 2. Prioritize prayerful listening. 3. Keep a ready “yes.” 4. Anchor impressions in Scripture. 5. Act swiftly when God speaks. 6. Extend Christlike love universally. 7. Rest in God’s sovereign outcomes. These steps keep believers poised, like Ananias, to hear when God calls and to move the moment He says, “Go.” |
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