Encouragement

I keep a file on my computer with some of the encouraging emails and texts I receive. They’re often an affirmation of my God-given talents or a recognition of how I try to lead and serve. These messages are from people who have generously taken the time to encourage me. They probably don’t know I’ve saved their messages, but encouragement is so important!

In life, we can easily get discouraged and this little treasure trove of encouragement reminds me why I do what I do. In Acts, a follower of Jesus called Joseph was given the nickname Barnabas, which simply means ‘son of encouragement’.

When we read about the early Church, we tend to think a lot about Paul and Peter – they were both leaders with incredible vision, boldness in the face of adversity and a gift to lead God’s people. But we can sometimes forget the other leaders in the early church who don’t get as much limelight – people like Barnabas.

Barnabas’s name appears 23 times in Acts and five times in Paul’s letters, but he doesn’t often get as much recognition. In today’s handful of verses, we get a real insight into the man.

One of his key attributes, made clear by his nickname, was that he was an encourager. With so many challenges swirling around at this time, and the continual pressures of 21st century living, I am challenged to be more Barnabas, to look for ways in which I can encourage others in their faith journey, encourage others in ministry, and encourage others in their leadership.

I wonder if you’re up for that challenge today too? To encourage someone generously today?

Who can you encourage? How can you be more Barnabas?

Prayer:

Pray that God would open your eyes to those who need encouragement today. Ask Him to give you the right words to speak or write, and the courage to share them generously. Pray for a heart like Barnabas — one that lifts others up, affirms their gifts, and strengthens them in their faith journey. Ask God to make you a source of light and encouragement in someone’s life this week.

Take a 40acts challenge today:

1. Speak three words of encouragement over people today.
2. Write a handwritten card and post it to someone you want to encourage today.
3. Send a generous gift alongside a message to someone who will encourage them today!