August 7
Bible Reading: Acts 11:19-22
Acts 11:23-24, “When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith.”
“Encouragement, noun: the act of giving courage or confidence of success; incentive.” — Webster’s Dictionary 1828 Edition
Barnabas embodied encouragement. Originally named Joseph, he was renamed “Barnabas” (son of encouragement) by the apostles, reflecting his supportive ministry. Barnabas first appears in Acts 4, where he sells a field and donates the proceeds to help needy believers in Jerusalem (Acts 4:37). This generous act encouraged many early Christians. Later, he participated in a relief effort during a great famine (Acts 11:27-30). In Antioch, where many had turned to the Lord, Barnabas encouraged new believers to stay faithful (Acts 11:23). He sought help from Saul (Paul), and together they taught many people for a year, strengthening their faith (Acts 11:25-26). Are the people in your life better off in Jesus for knowing you? That’s how things were in Barnabas’ life. It seems as if everyone was the beneficiary through his encouraging manner!
The Christian life is often compared to a race (1 Corinthians 9:24-27; Hebrews 12:1-2; Philippians 3:14). Runners face many challenges and need encouragement to endure. God calls us to support one another, not to ignore or hinder those who struggle. We should all strive to be like Barnabas. The Holy Spirit, our ultimate encourager, helps us encourage others (John 14:16). Filled with the Spirit, Barnabas acted as the “Holy Spirit with hands,” uplifting others in Christ, that they might press on and do God’s will.
God exhorts us to encourage one another through the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7). Someone in your life may need encouragement right now. Call them. Share with them an encouraging word. Buy them lunch or a surprise gift. Find a way to lift their spirit. Point them to Christ, as Barnabas did, and help them find strength in Him (1 Thessalonians 5:18; Hebrews 10:25; 12:1-3).
“Encouragement is awesome. It (can) actually change the course of another person’s day, week, or life.” – Chuck Swindoll
MAKE ME A BLESSING
Out in the highways and byways of life,
Many are weary and sad;
Carry the sunshine where darkness is rife,
Making the sorrowing glad.
Refrain:
Make me a blessing, Make me a blessing.
Out of my life may Jesus shine;
Make me a blessing, O Savior, I pray.
Make me a blessing to someone today.
Tell the sweet story of Christ and his love,
Tell of his pow’r to forgive;
Others will trust him if only you prove
True, ev’ry moment you live. [Refrain]
Give as ‘twas given to you in your need,
Love as the Master loved you;
Be to the helpless a helper indeed,
Unto your mission be true. [Refrain]
LookingtoJesus 