S – Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard from many people about this man, how much harm he has done to your saints in Jerusalem. ¹⁴ And he has authority here from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.” 

¹⁵ But the Lord said to him, “Go, for this man is my chosen instrument to take my name to Gentiles, kings, and Israelites. ¹⁶ I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”

Acts 9:13–16 CSB

O – Commentary:

the believers: Literally God’s holy people;…

9:15 Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles: In God’s plan for spreading the Good News, the Gentiles were the next step (see 1:8; cp. chs 10–11). Saul of Tarsus (Paul) was God’s choice to spearhead this expansive missionary effort to bring the Christian message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel. The rest of Acts illustrates Saul’s (Paul’s) faithfulness in carrying out this divine commission (e.g., 26:19–23)

 New Living Translation Study Bible 

A – God chose the most vehement enemy and allowed him to become the most fervent follower of Christ.  If he can do that, we can love our enemies.  They may not become our “buddies,” but we can show they love that God shows us.  Also note, the courage that Ananais shows is amazing.  God will ask us to do stuff that is challenging and will cause fear to rise up.  When we know it is God, we don’t have to walk in fear.  We can be confident that he has a plan.

R – Heavenly Father, you are all knowing, present and powerful.  You have no limitations or restrictions in any of these.  Empower us today to walk with you in confidence, humility and peace.