By Rev. Keith Howard
Scripture Reading:
“But the Lord said to him, ‘Go, for he is a chosen instrument of Mine to carry My name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel.’” — Acts 9:15 (ESV)
Devotion:
Saul of Tarsus was a name feared by early Christians. He was not just opposed to the Gospel—he was obsessed with destroying it. Zealous, radical, and dangerous, Saul was on a mission to wipe out the followers of Jesus. If anyone seemed beyond saving, it was Saul.
And yet… grace.
On the road to Damascus, Saul encountered the very Jesus he was persecuting. In one moment, everything changed. The proud persecutor became a humble preacher. The extremist became an evangelist. His name changed. His heart changed. His mission changed.
God didn’t just stop Saul—He redeemed him and recommissioned him.
The man who once dragged believers from their homes went on to plant churches, write much of the New Testament, and boldly proclaim the Gospel across the known world.
What Does This Have to Do With You?
Maybe you feel disqualified by your past. Maybe shame, failure, or brokenness whispers that God can’t use someone like you.
But Saul’s story silences that lie.
God doesn’t call the qualified—He qualifies the called.
God specializes in turning messes into messages.
Saul was God’s “chosen instrument”—and so are you. There is no one too far gone, no background too broken, no heart too hard for the transforming power of Jesus.
- What parts of your past do you think disqualify you from being used by God?
- Have you had a “Damascus moment”—a time when God interrupted your direction?
- Who in your life needs to hear the hope of Saul’s transformation?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You that no one is beyond Your reach—not even me. I give You my past, my failures, and my future. Use me as Your chosen instrument, just like You used Paul. Turn my story into a testimony for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.
If you would like to talk about your Salvation or service, please get in touch with me at +1 (954) 657-3041 or keith@beaconlightmin.com
