Developing a Vibrant Faith
Acts 9:1-16
The apostle Paul had a strong commitment to know and
serve Jesus Christ.
His passion and love for the Lord was obvious—Jesus
was always central in his thinking, whether he was working as a tent maker,
preaching to the crowd, or even sitting in chains at prison. What fueled his
love for the Lord?
Paul’s conversion experience on the Damascus Road was
a motivating force in his life. Grateful for the gift of grace he had received
at salvation, the apostle told many people about his encounter with the
resurrected Christ and its impact on him. We, too, have a story to tell of
God’s mercy in saving us and of the new life we have in Him.
Paul’s zeal also came from his firm conviction that
the gospel message was true and available to everyone (John 3:16). On the
cross, Jesus took all our sins—past, present, and future—upon Himself (1 Pet.
2:24). He suffered our punishment so that we might receive forgiveness and be
brought into a right relationship with God. Through faith in Christ, we’ve been
born again, and the indwelling Holy Spirit helps us every day (John 14:26). The
more we understand what Jesus has accomplished on our behalf, the greater will
be our passion to share the gospel.
Developing a vibrant faith requires time and energy
plus a commitment to obey God. Regularly studying the Bible will strengthen
your beliefs and give you courage to speak. Caring about the spiritual welfare
of others will move you into action.
Do you have a passion to serve Jesus wherever He
leads?