The Calling of Paul

I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13, 14.

Have you ever felt like you were going in the complete wrong direction? Today, we explore the amazing story of the Apostle Paul, who started out fighting against Christianity but ended up becoming its greatest champion.

From Persecutor to Follower

Paul, originally known as Saul, was a highly educated Jewish man who followed the religious law very strictly. He saw the early Christians as a threat and even approved the stoning of Stephen, a follower of Jesus (Acts 8:1). But God had a different plan for Paul. On the road to Damascus, where Paul was headed to arrest more Christians, Jesus appeared to him in a bright light. Blinded by the experience, Paul heard Jesus ask, "Why are you persecuting me?" (Acts 9:4). This encounter changed Paul's life forever. He became a follower of Jesus and dedicated himself to spreading the message of Christ. Ellen White says,

"Paul did many things. From the time that he gave his allegiance to Christ, his life was filled with untiring service. From city to city, from country to country, he journeyed, telling the story of the cross, winning converts to the gospel, and establishing churches.... At times he worked at his trade, to earn his daily bread. But in all the busy activities of his life, Paul never lost sight of one great purpose—to press toward the prize of his high calling. One aim he kept steadfastly before him—to be faithful to the One who at the gate of Damascus had revealed Himself to him. From this aim nothing had power to turn him aside.... The great purpose that constrained Paul to press forward in the face of hardship and difficulty should lead every Christian worker to consecrate himself wholly to God's service. Worldly attractions will be presented to draw his attention from the Saviour, but he is to press on toward the goal, showing to the world, to angels, and to men that the hope of seeing the face of God is worth all the effort and sacrifice that the attainment of this hope demands." The Acts of the Apostles, 483, 484.

Reflect and Respond:

• Think about a time you made a mistake or a bad decision. How did you learn from it?
• How can Paul's story inspire you to share your faith with others?

Following God's Call

Paul's journey as a Christian was not easy. He faced many challenges, including beatings, imprisonment, and even shipwrecks (2 Corinthians 11:23-27). But through it all, Paul remained faithful to God. He wrote many letters, which are now part of the New Testament, that continue to teach and inspire Christians today.

Remember: Even when things are tough, God can use us to do amazing things.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for your love and forgiveness, just like you showed Paul. Help us to follow your calling, even when it's difficult. Amen.

Sulad Jhun Cardeinte writes from Adventist International Institute of Advance Studies (AIIAS) Silang, Cavite, Philippines. His email address is acardeinte@aiias.edu

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To read the previous blog articles, go to SULADS Thailand website and click blog section. Direct link below; https://www.suladsthailand.com/blog-1/