Barnabas

November 16

Acts 4:36, 11:19-24

Son of Encouragement

Barnabas, one of the Levites who served in the Temple, had become a believer. He was from Cyprus, a large island in the Mediterranean Sea. His real name was Joseph, but the disciples named him Barnabas, which means Son of Encouragement.

The leaders in Jerusalem, who had crucified Jesus, started persecuting those who believed in Him. Some believers fled to distant cities, spreading the Good News of Jesus wherever they went. Many who heard their message believed and were saved.

When news of what was happening reached the Church in Jerusalem, they sent Barnabas to encourage the believers in the city of Antioch. Barnabas was overjoyed to see the wonderful things God was doing in Antioch and encouraged the believers to stay faithful to the Lord.

How important is the gift of encouragement?

If there’s one thing everyone needs, it is encouragement. Life is tough! We all get discouraged and need someone to help us see past the difficult situation we are in; someone who gives us hope, and helps us think positive, helpful thoughts.

Many of the new believers had to change their way of life because they were used to serving heathen gods. Some were rejected by their families and friends, and some lost their jobs. The believers, who were insulted and mistreated, needed someone like Barnabas to renew their hope and courage.

The Spirit has given us different gifts: some prophesy, some enjoy serving, some are able to teach and some have been given the gift of encouragement (Romans 12:6-8). If you are a positive person who loves to cheer up those who are downhearted and be a friend to those who feel rejected, you are an encourager like Barnabas!

Verse for today

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11