“Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord” (Acts 11:23).
I feel the early church understood what it meant to encourage one another. One name stands out when I think of that church. That name is Barnabas, which translated means “son of encouragement.” Today’s verse speaks of him. The New Living Translation states “When he (Barnabas) arrived and saw this evidence of God’s blessing, he was filled with joy, and he encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord.”
The early church thrived in spite of persecution. They had been scattered after Stephen’s death. That didn’t hinder the gospel being preached to the Gentiles. Barnabas stayed true to his name and encouraged believers to hold on to their faith. Are you being a Barnabas to others in your part of the world?
Sue Winchester
Missouri
PRAY TOGETHER: Think of the most encouraging person you know—a modern day Barnabas. Now pray personal encouragement for this person today.
