We hear the phrase, “God works in mysterious ways.” all the time. We may even use that phrase ourselves. One of the benefits of having the biblical accounts is that we get to see how God works and His ‘mysteries’ are revealed right before our eyes. Take Saul for instance. A well-educated Pharisee of Roman birth, proficient in the knowledge of the Law of Moses, well spoken, highly thought of, and Christian persecutor. A ‘mysterious’ choice in man for God to use to further the Gospel message of His son.
Saul hated and persecuted Christians because of his desire to follow God and keep His law pure. Saul’s heart was of pure intentions, I believe, because when confronted with the truth, Saul changed and immediately started proclaiming that Jesus is the only way to redemption. This perplexed many because not long ago, days prior, Saul was breathing threats and murder against those who believed in what he is now preaching. In fact, a few days after he started to preach Jesus, the Jews began to breath threats and murder against him! This did not stop Saul and he would eventually be accepted by the disciples and apostles of Jesus, becoming an apostle himself, serving the church in various ways, writing most of what we know as the New Testament, all while suffering for the name of Christ. My favorite detail is how God used his Roman citizenship by birth to take the Gospel all the way to Rome.
God calls all people to serve him in ways that often seem mysterious to us and to others. Unfortunately, we don’t know what God’s plan is for us all the time. Fortunately, we have an example like Saul to look on and know that whatever we go through, no matter how strange, if we are pushing forward and doing the will of God, He will reveal the ‘mystery’ to us in time. He will love and care for us as we love and care for others in Jesus’ name. I encourage us this week to not shy away from what we have been called to do, even if it seems like we aren’t the right person. God will use us in ways that are mysterious to us, but known to Him if we trust Him. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
