Day 13 - Paul: All In With a Transformed Mind
Devotional Scripture Reading
Primary Passage: Acts 9:1-9
Supporting Scriptures (as cited in devotional): Acts 9:1-6, Acts 9:6, Romans 12:1, Acts 11:25-26, Ephesians 4:11-13, Philippians 1:12-14, Second Timothy 4:7
KJV (Full Text):
1 And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,
2 And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.
3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:
4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?
5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.
7 And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man.
8 And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.
9 And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.
Summary: Acts 9:1-9 — Jesus confronted Saul, transformed him, and redirected his life for God’s mission.
Paul’s story proves that God can interrupt a life headed in the wrong direction and repurpose it for Kingdom impact. On the road to Damascus, Paul encountered the risen Christ, and everything changed (Acts 9:1–6). The Greek word metanoia (μετάνοια) means a complete change of mind and direction. Being All In begins when your mind is renewed, and your life turns toward God’s will, not your old ways.
First, Paul shows us surrender that replaces control. He went from commanding others to obeying Christ, asking, “Lord, what do You want me to do?” (Acts 9:6). That is the posture of a disciple. Romans 12:1 calls this presenting your body as a living sacrifice. Paul lived what he later taught. All In faith is not simply believing Jesus is Lord. It is living like Jesus is Lord.
Second, Paul shows us discipleship that forms mature believers. After conversion, he learned, grew, and then strengthened the church through teaching, correction, and encouragement (Acts 11:25–26; Ephesians 4:11–13). Paul’s letters reveal theological depth and pastoral wisdom. He teaches that the church must be built with sound doctrine, spiritual discipline, and unity. That is why All In requires unity to succeed. Division weakens the witness.
Third, Paul shows us evangelism fueled by endurance. Whether preaching in synagogues, speaking before kings, or writing epistles from prison, he refused to be silenced (Acts 26; Philippians 1:12–14). He understood that suffering can become a platform. Second Timothy 4:7 shows his finishing spirit. He did not just start strong. He finished faithfully.
Paul reminds us that God transforms minds so He can transform mission. During this fast, ask God to renew your thinking, deepen your discipleship, and strengthen your boldness. A renewed mind produces a rebuilt life.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for transforming Paul and proving that no past is beyond Your power. Renew my mind through Your Word and align my thoughts with Your truth. Help me surrender control and obey You fully. Lord, build maturity in me so I can strengthen others through discipleship and unity. Please give me the courage to share the gospel with endurance, no matter what I face. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
Reflective Questions:
1. What mindset or pattern does God want to renew in me during this fast?
2. How can I grow in discipleship and spiritual maturity this week in a practical way?