What a Strange Vessel!

Daily Devotional – Monday, February 19, 2024
But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.
Acts 9:15 (NKJV)

A former prisoner, now a pastor, was being interviewed about his dark past and how it was affecting his current occupation. Several commentators were disgusted and insisted that someone who had hurt so many people should not become a pastor.

He is a Chosen Vessel of Mine

Such sentiments are not new. Ananias, an early Christian disciple living in Damascus, received the shock of his life when Jesus appeared to him in a vision. Ananias, probably in hiding because Saul, the persecutor of Christians, was in town, was astonished to hear Jesus tell him to go and pray for Saul.

As if that was not enough, the Lord told Ananias, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.” (Acts 9:15-16). What a poor choice of messenger! A persecutor of the church and a killer of believers? Ananias must have wondered.

What a Strange Vessel!

God still picks unusual people, like Saul, to do his work. He goes against popular beliefs and transforms His enemies into allies. I know a former prisoner who was an avowed enemy of the church and his fellow inmates but is today a fierce defender of the faith.

Never dismiss anyone as being unwinnable for Jesus. Self-confessed atheists, killers, and even non-Christians can become chosen vessels for the salvation of many. Pray for them to know Jesus. Similarly, irrespective of your current spiritual conditions, God regards you as His chosen vessel. Never despise others. Do not look down on yourself. Jesus is not yet done with you.

Prayer
Thank you, Jesus, because, despite my unworthiness, I am your chosen instrument.