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. And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink. And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, (Acts 9:8-11)
When Saul encountered light, it was the glory of God entering his life. Scripture doesn't tell us that anyone around him saw the light, just Saul. The light from heaven temporarily blinded him, and he heard the voice of Jesus.
This encounter with God's glory is reminiscent of Moses’ experience with God’s glory on Mount Sinai. Moses was so full of light when he came down that people had to cover their eyes. However, Moses was a servant and follower of God, and Saul, up to this point, was an enemy of Christians. When the glory falls on those who aren’t living for God, there will be problems.
Saul’s blindness was not just a physical issue; God was telling him about his spiritual state. Saul was blind to seeing what God was doing because he was sure he knew that Christianity was wrong. For three days, Saul was without sight, food, or drink. He spent this time receiving help from God and had to rely on others for his safety and direction. God was preparing Saul to depend entirely on Him.
When Ananias prayed for Saul, his eyes became full of light. God is full of light and revelation, and there is no darkness in Him. God wants to show you and others His glory so that we can bring His light into dark places.
Practical Application
Does it feel like your neighborhood, workplace, or other places you go are full of darkness, depression, or heaviness? Remind yourself that you bring the light of His glory and expect the atmosphere to change when you arrive. You bring His glory.