DCLM Daily Manna – 25 May 2026 By Pastor W. F. Kumuyi

DCLM Daily Manna – 25 May 2026
By Pastor W. F. Kumuyi

TOPIC: Chosen Vessels in Uncommon Wraps

KEY VERSE:

“But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel” (Acts 9:15).

BIBLE READING: Acts 9:10-16 (KJV)

10 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.
11 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,
12 And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.
13 Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem:
14 And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name.
15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:
16 For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake.

MESSAGE
The inspiring story of Olaudah Equiano, the writer who became a leading figure in the British abolitionist movement, is well known. He was a slave taken from Southern Nigeria who later played a role in shaping public opinion about slave trade in the late 18th century England. His story reminds us that judging people solely by their past ignores the potential for redemption and transformation. Equiano’s transformation from a slave boy to one of the most influential leaders of the 18th century is a testament to the idea that people can grow beyond their past.

That illustration resonates perfectly with Saul of Tarsus, featured in today’s text. His story was set in Damascus in the early Christian era. God sent an older disciple named Ananias to go and minister to Saul, a newly converted, notorious hitman who terrorised the Christian community. Understandably, Ananias was afraid to approach Saul because of his reputation as a fierce persecutor of believers in Christ. He did not know God had transformed Saul and prepared him to receive further instructions and ministration from the disciples he planned to destroy.

This story teaches us not to write people off because of their past. Many people have faced great challenges or made mistakes, but that does not mean they cannot become better versions of themselves and be vessels of honour in God’s hands. Whereas Ananias dwelt on the old story of Saul, God viewed him in terms of what he would accomplish for Him.

We often find God’s chosen vessels disguised as treasures in an earthen vessel. Do not be intimidated by appearances, but preach the gospel to everyone, including those who oppose and persecute Christians. Jesus said we should pray for them, not against them. Are there people you have written off, thinking they are beyond redemption? Today’s text should impress on you the need to change your perspectives. Do not be afraid to reach out to those whom God sends your way; otherwise, you may be passing over another Saul of Tarsus.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
Someone’s past may be a chapter, but not necessarily the whole book of his or her life.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Joel 1-3

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Commentary

Today’s Daily Manna confronts the human tendency to judge by past reputation rather than divine potential. Ananias knew Saul the persecutor, but God had already transformed him into Paul the apostle. The same is true for many today: the person who seems most unlikely may be God’s “chosen vessel.”

The reference to Olaudah Equiano – a Nigerian slave who became a British abolitionist – powerfully illustrates that redemption rewrites destiny. God does not look at your origin, your mistakes, or your former life. He looks at what He can make of you.

Three key lessons:

1. Don’t write yourself off. Your past is not final. Saul became Paul. You can become what God says you are.

2. Don’t write others off. The person annoying you today might be the one leading revival tomorrow. Ananias almost missed his assignment because of fear.

3. God uses unexpected vessels. “Treasures in earthen vessels” (2 Corinthians 4:7). The wrap may be uncommon, but the content is priceless.

Prayer based on today’s devotional:
Lord, help me to see people – and myself – through Your eyes. Give me the courage to reach out to those others have written off. And if I have been written off, let me rise as a chosen vessel in Your hands. In Jesus’ name. Amen.