FRIDAY January 20, 2023
Encouragement
And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.
Acts 4:36-37
Who was Barnabas? He was a Christian teacher and a companion of Paul on several of his missionary journeys. It was Barnabas who stood with Paul in his defense that he had indeed seen Christ and had become converted (Acts 9:27). It must have been so encouraging to Paul, because the disciples were still afraid of him and did not believe he was saved.
The name Barnabas is fitting for this humble, godly leader. The name Barnabas means “son of consolation or comfort.” Interestingly, it was a name given to him by the apostles and is also translated “Son of Encouragement.” He must have been an incredible encouragement to them.
Barnabas was a man of great integrity and generosity. He owned land and sold it and kept back none of the proceeds for himself. He laid the entire amount at the apostles’ feet.
In a time of persecution, as the church grew tremendously, Barnabas was sent from the church in Jerusalem to encourage the believers in Christ as far away as Antioch. Notice his spiritual influence and spiritual character:
When he [Barnabas] 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 (Acts 11:23-24).
Are you a Barnabas? Encouragement, especially in times of trial and hardship, are so needed in the body of Christ. Follow Barnabas’ example and be an encourager to all those in your family, in the church, and in your neighborhood.
Ministry need not be an office; it’s a lifestyle devoted to attracting the lost to Christ and encouraging other believers in the faith.
~D.L. Moody~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
