Hard Hearts

“As he was traveling, it happened that he was approaching Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him; and he fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?’”—Acts 9:3–5 NASB

For many years, a man called on the service of a Christian businessman. In their interactions, conversations often turned toward faith. The Christian made clear what he believed. When the door opened, he shared his testimony. But his client had no interest in the Gospel.

The businessman continued to demonstrate how Jesus made a difference. He focused on being responsible and a good example. Suddenly, the man asked how to be saved. The Christian businessman had the privilege of leading him to the Lord.

No one who knew the man ever would have imagined this moment would be possible. He appeared to be completely uninterested in the Gospel. Yet somehow, God had been working in his heart, using the testimony and example of this Christian businessman and others.

Many must have felt the same way about Saul. He was determined in his attitude toward Jesus. He was determined to eradicate the faith, to imprison anyone who claimed to be His disciple. Yet in a moment, Saul’s life was turned upside down when Jesus appeared to him.

We must remember that no heart ever is too hard for God. His Spirit can work in the lives of even the most disinterested people. We must never give up or assume our labor is in vain. Ask God to equip you to be His witness with those you meet—even those who may seem to be closed to the Gospel.

Reflection Question: To whom can you witness this week?