From Trials to Triumph

Paul's “University” in the Desert

In the solitude of the desert Paul had opportunity for study and meditation. He calmly reviewed his past experience and sought God with all his heart, resting not until he knew for certain that his repentance was accepted and his sin pardoned. Jesus communed with him and established him in the faith, bestowing upon him a rich measure of wisdom and grace. When the mind is brought into communion with the mind of God, the effect on body, mind, and soul is beyond estimate. TT 67.4

Ananias under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit had said to Paul: “The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know His will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of His mouth. For thou shalt be His witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. And now why tarriest thou? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” Acts 22:14-16. TT 67.5

Jesus Himself, when He arrested Saul on the journey to Damascus, declared: “I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in Me.” Acts 26:16-18. TT 67.6

As he pondered these things, Paul understood more clearly his call “to be an apostle of Christ Jesus.” 1 Corinthians 1:1. His call had come “not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father.” Galatians 1:1, RSV. He gave much study to the Scriptures, that he might preach “not with eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power,” “but in demonstration of the Spirit and power,” that the faith of all who heard “might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:17; 2:4, 5, RSV. Viewing the wisdom of the world in the light of the cross, Paul “decided to know nothing ... except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” 1 Corinthians 2:2, RSV. TT 68.1

Paul never lost sight of the Source of wisdom and strength. Hear him declare, “For to me to live is Christ.” Philippians 1:21. “I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For His sake I have suffered the loss of all things.” Philippians 3:8, RSV. TT 68.2