Saul’s Damascus-Road Encounter

Saul’s Damascus-road encounter reminds us that if God could instantly transform a persecutor into Paul the apostle, He can bring change in our lives too.

“As he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?’”—Acts 9:3–4

Many in the early church shuddered with fear. They had seen Saul of Tarsus dragging believers into prison and breathing “threats and murder” (v. 1). Many had fled Jerusalem to avoid his searchlight pursuit. Then Saul took his campaign to Damascus, seeking to track down even more believers.

But then Saul had a supernatural encounter with Jesus. In that moment, everything changed—for Paul, his companions, and the church.

When we experience problems in our lives and the world, we can feel discouraged, sure that nothing will change. But if God can change a man like Saul so quickly and completely, surely He can change any situation. He can transform even the most hardened atheist. He can redirect the life of anyone headed in the wrong direction.

God can change any circumstance and turn defeat into victory. He can bring hope where there is no hope, abundance where poverty has reigned. He can provide guidance amid confusion and harmony instead of conflict. He can provide answers to life’s most desperate problems.

God can bring about this kind of turnaround for you. No problem is insurmountable. No need is too great.

Commit your life to Him and never stop believing. He can turn any situation around. The God who suddenly changed Saul can bring change for you. Trust Him!

Reflection Question: What situation in your life do you need God to suddenly turn around?