The Value of Encouragement
One of my favorite characters in the Bible was a man named Barnabas. He was not one of the more well-known men in Scripture. As far as I know, he never performed any miracles. He is not credited with writing any of the books of the Bible. Still, I am convinced that we are blessed today because God used Barnabas in a mighty way.
Joseph was his real name, but the Apostles nicknamed him Barnabas because Barnabas means “Son of Encouragement.” He had the gift of encouragement and used it to inspire people to do their best for God. Even the greatest men in the Bible often needed encouragement. God involved Barnabas in inspiring at least two of the most important men in the New Testament. He touched their hearts profoundly.
It was Barnabas who encouraged the Apostles to accept Paul when he was a new believer. Later, when Paul would disappear for two years, Barnabas would go to Tarsus and inspire him to begin a work in Antioch. Later, when John Mark would fail on a missionary journey, it was Barnabas who believed in him and gave him another chance. For this reason, I feel grateful for the Son of Encouragement whenever I read the Gospel of Mark. I also feel grateful when I read the Letters of Paul.
Giving Encouragement,Pleasing God
I challenge you to become a Barnabas. In Proverbs, we read that hearing the right word for the right occasion is a joy. God is pleased with friendly words. So, make it a point to encourage everyone you come in contact with. Put a smile on your face and tell someone that they are doing a good job. Your kind words may be the inspiration someone needs to hear today.
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“Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but the Jews only. But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus.
And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord. Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch.
When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord. For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul.
And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.”
Acts 11:19-26 NKJV
https://bible.com/bible/114/act.11.26.NKJV
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Douglas & Deborah Huff
From Down Where the Pavement Ends
Email- pavementendsministry@gmail.com
