Life Lessons From 25 New Testament CharactersSample

Support Beams

Skyscrapers are breathtaking; they are of incredible design, of magnificent scale, and solid as a rock in all kinds of weather. Yet often we forget the support structures inside the buildings that work every day to keep the skyscrapers as a whole functioning as they were designed. The support beams are critical; holding up the huge towers, bracing against anything that could threaten them. So it is with people like Barnabas who encourage the body of Christ. They are the vital support beams of God’s Church and mission. Barnabas consistently kept Paul, Mark, and other leaders from giving up and letting conflict destroy the church. His encouragement helped push God’s mission forward to reach others for Christ with the Gospel in the early days of the Church. Although it is often behind the scenes and not “on a stage”, a short, meaningful act or word of truth can encourage a brother or sister in their soul in deep ways. The Holy Spirit uses willing people to do the behind-the-scenes work of relational encouragement so that His Church won’t give up in their faith or missional work! So be reminded; don't underestimate the support beams; there is great importance in being an Encourager.

THINK and PRAY:

In Matthew chapter 16, Jesus Christ tells us that in order to follow Him, we will need to “turn from our way, pick up our cross, and go counter-cultural to the world’s pursuit.” The road of following Jesus is not easy. With this as a realistic backdrop, we then understand the crucial need for consistent, godly encouragement meant for all followers of Christ. Paul, Mark and other leaders experienced opposition, spiritual enemies, physical hardships and emotional stress all through the book of Acts. It is no different for us today as we follow Christ and do His work. But what can push us through trials like nothing else? An intentional, Spirit-filled encourager like Barnabas. A person who is filled with the Holy Spirit and Truth can help clear a friend’s perspective, keep them from quitting, and most importantly, point their eyes back to the worth and goal of Jesus! God can use you today, just like Barnabas, to “speak life, truth and encouragement” to someone who is discouraged, depressed, or tired. Use your love and words to pick them up! You are crucial to the body standing strong in Christ!