You have heard it said, “Don’t tell me I have a friend in Jesus until you show me I have a friend in you.” That phrase isn’t from Scripture, but I kind of wish it was. It certainly is a good application of the verse that says “Love your neighbor as you love yourself” (Mark 12:31). 

Ananias was probably part of the group that had fled Jerusalem after Stephen had been stoned. He knew Saul of Tarsus wanted to harm Christians and he wanted nothing to do with him or his recovery. Yet, when the Lord said go, Ananias went! We don’t have to like God’s call to choose it.

When Ananias placed his hands on Saul, he called him “brother.” When Ananias told Saul he knew about his experience on the road to Damascus, Saul knew he had a brother he could trust as he was from God. When Saul of Tarsus was filled with the Holy Spirit, they both knew God had redeemed past sins for his holy purpose.

But Ananias didn’t leave Saul alone. Most scholars assume Ananias baptized Saul and helped him regain his physical strength with food. Scripture says that for many days Saul joined the disciples in Damascus. Quite likely, Ananias made that possible. The passage continues: “Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by testifying that Jesus was the Christ” (v. 22).

We all have one or more Sauls in our lives, people who seem antagonistic to our faith. We might think of them as hopeless prospects for the salvation and biblical wisdom we would like to share with them. Ananias didn’t just share God’s message; he also shared his love and compassion. Saul might not have received his words except that they were accompanied by a godly witness.

Ananias was a wise Christian man who understood that God’s calling was not offered as a suggestion. God accepted and answered Ananias’ concerns, and Ananias accepted and answered God’s call. Human history was absolutely changed as a result. Saul became the Apostle Paul and was baptized, cared for, and strengthened for his ministry.

The strength God provides is the strength needed for the task at hand. Yielding to God’s wisdom is spiritual strength. His strength has value and purpose we cannot always comprehend. Ananias had no idea what his faithfulness to God would ultimately accomplish. How might the Lord call you and strengthen you to accomplish his good purpose in the days ahead? Yield to his wisdom now and you will be ready.