Before he was converted, Saul was a Pharisee, a terrible man, who actively persecuted the early Saints. Part of the terrible scene at the stoning of Stephen and responsible for the death of many members of the Church, he was one of God's chosen servants. He was miraculously converted and went on to be a mighty missionary.
Saul's change from persecutor to servant occurred, when he heard the voice of the Lord. Even though we read the famous story of this mighty man in the scriptures, hearing the voice of the Lord is not reserved for the elect. All can hear the voice of the Lord and become converted. The scriptures, ancient and modern, are the voice of the Lord. When we read the scriptures, the Holy Ghost carries the voice of the Lord to us and whispers that they are true.
Generally, conversion is a gentle, gradual experience, unlike Saul's sudden, miraculous experience. “On occasion individuals can have [experiences like Saul’s], but for the most part, conversion happens over a period of time as study, prayer, experience, and faith help us to grow in our testimony and conversion” (Robert D. Hales, Ensign, May 1997, 80).
“Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” is the most important question we can ask in this life" (Ezra Taft Benson, Ensign, Jan. 1973, 57). It is important to discover and submit to God’s will, as Saul finally did.
Understandably, Ananias was hesitant to greet Saul, however, he obeyed God's directions. This demonstrates that God will stand and support us. As bad a Saul was, God did not give up on him; he was not beyond spiritual help.
Ananias blessed, healed, and baptized Saul through the power of the priesthood. After he was baptized, Saul preached the gospel of Jesus Christ, acting out his covenant to always remember Jesus and stand as His witness. All who follow Jesus are under the same obligation. Maybe we won't all travel around and get lowered in baskets from high walls, but we can all be examples and expounders of Jesus' gospel.
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Reading the scriptures and keeping this journal are my delight. I do not keep an online journal to preach to anyone but myself. I like this format, because I can add pictures and correct my writing easier. If you enjoy reading it, I am happy. If you feel offended, please, realize it is not my intention to offend but to teach myself. No negative comments will not be published.