Encouragement
Reading and Commenting Through the Book of Acts
Read Acts 9:26-31
Paul escaped the threat at Damascus and now entered Jerusalem, the epicenter of the church. Instead of being welcomed like a brother he was kept at arms length. He was not trusted. It was difficult to believe a man who was all about destroying the Jesus movement was now a member of what he was once trying to destroy.
Then comes Barnabas. How he knew Paul was legitimate, we really don’t know. But what we do know is that he got personally involved to help Paul cross over the invisible bridge of acceptance. Due to Barnabas’ ambassador work of encouragement, Paul became one of them; he was brought into the fold.
We should never underestimate the influence of honest and Spirit-empowered encouragement. Barnabas is a wonderful example to all of us.
He lived a life of financial generosity.
Acts 4:36-37 records he sold property belonging to him and gave the money to the Jesus movement.
He constantly looked for ways to encourage.
It does not take speculation to assume this when the brotherhood called him “Son of Encouragement” instead of his given name Joseph.
His encouragement was sincere.
Some people say things and do things for self-interests. Some people say nice things because it’s easier than saying what needs to be said. Sincere encouragement acknowledges truth whether it feels good or bad within a spirit of empathy and concern.
His encouragement was “hands-on.”
He sold property and gave the money away. He took the rejected Paul by the hand and brought him to the apostles. In other words, he went out of his way to encourage. He gave more than lip service; he gave himself.
He embodied encouragement.
As already stated, those who knew him gave him a name that matched his attitude and behavior.
Reflection Questions:
Think about the last time someone encouraged you. What did they do and how did it affect you?
When is the last time you purposefully encouraged someone else?
Which of the five examples of Barnabas’ life has nudged you most?
