How can Saul's experience in Acts 9:23 inspire our faith during trials? Setting the Scene Acts 9:23 records, “After many days had passed, the Jews conspired to kill him.” This single sentence drops us into Saul’s (later Paul’s) first storm as a new believer. Just days earlier he had encountered the risen Jesus, regained his sight, and begun proclaiming Christ in Damascus. The immediate backlash reminds us that trials are not signs of spiritual failure but often confirmation that God is at work. Trials Came Quickly • Saul did nothing wrong—he proclaimed truth, and opposition arose. • The plot against him was deadly, not merely inconvenient. • Believers had to lower him in a basket through an opening in the wall at night (v. 25) to spare his life. • From conversion onward, hardship became a recurring theme in Paul’s ministry (cf. 2 Corinthians 11:23-27). What Saul’s Experience Teaches Us about Trials • Expect resistance – Jesus promised, “If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first” (John 15:18). – “Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). • Opposition does not nullify God’s plan – God had already said Saul was “My chosen instrument” (Acts 9:15). A murder plot could not overturn that calling. • God provides timely deliverance – He used fellow believers and a simple basket to thwart a lethal conspiracy. – Psalm 34:19: “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all.” • Trials forge spiritual resilience – Early hardship steeled Paul for greater missions—missionary journeys, imprisonments, and ultimately martyrdom. • Witness shines brightest under pressure – The plot in Damascus only amplified the testimony of a former persecutor now persecuted for the faith he once tried to destroy (Galatians 1:23-24). Applying Saul’s Example to Our Own Trials 1. Recognize the spiritual dimension – Conflict for Christ’s sake is spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:12). 2. Look for God’s provision, however ordinary – Sometimes He sends a “basket”—an unexpected friend, resource, or opportunity—to carry us through. 3. Stand firm in calling – What God has spoken over your life remains true despite opposition. 4. Let endurance become your witness – Perseverance testifies that Christ is worthy (Philippians 1:29-30). 5. Trust long-term fruit over short-term comfort – Saul’s escape opened decades of ministry that still shape us today through his epistles. Encouragement for the Journey When trials arrive suddenly, remember Acts 9:23. The same Lord who protected Saul guards His people now. “He who calls you is faithful, and He will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24). |
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