The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul.” (Acts 9:11)
Trembling with fear, I went to my boss after I had made a mistake at work. I thought that maybe I would lose my job or be demoted. However, instead of being punished, my boss helped me find a way out of the mess I had made. She thanked me for being honest. In the end, I had a new appreciation for the boss, new skills for change, and more devotion to the Lord who answers prayer.
Ananias also felt fear. He felt threatened by Saul, due to information given to him by others. “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem,” Ananias responded. But God let Ananias know that he had a job to do and that Saul was his “chosen instrument to proclaim [his] name to the Gentiles” (v. 15).
So Ananias went to the house where Saul was staying. When the Lord called, he answered, “Yes, Lord,” and followed the Lord’s instructions. His fear did not overwhelm him.
Many of us have fears about our jobs and work relationships. We do not always like being told what to do and we fear making mistakes. We fear the wrath of others. However, we can look to the Lord for instructions. He can help mend relationships and mitigate fear. He loves you.
Go and do not fear being sent to represent Jesus.
Linda Valente, a nurse practitioner, is the wife Wesleyan pastor Frank Valente. They have served together with Wesleyan Native American Ministries, as missionaries to Africa, and now as grandparents of three.
© 2022 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
