Ananias was a faithful disciple of Jesus living in Damascus whom God chose to help Saul (later the Apostle Paul) after his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:10–19, KJV). Although Ananias was initially afraid because Saul had persecuted Christians, he obeyed the Lord's command and visited him, saying, "Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus... hath sent me" (Acts 9:17, KJV). He laid his hands on Saul, who immediately regained his sight, was filled with the Holy Ghost, and was baptized. Through Ananias' obedience, Saul began the ministry that would make him one of Christianity's greatest missionaries. Ananias' life illustrates the power of faithful obedience and reminds believers that God often uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary purposes. Note: This Ananias should not be confused with Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5, who lied to the Holy Spirit and were judged by God.