11 August 2010 Devotion for Today "The Encourager" Acts 4:32-37

11 August 2010 Devotion for Today "The Encourager" Acts 4:32-37

 
 

11 August 2010 Devotion for Today "The Encourager" Acts 4:32-37

32Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neitherdid anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they hadall things in common. 33 And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all. 34 Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands orhouses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, 35 andlaid them at the apostles' feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need.

36And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Sonof Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, 37 having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet. (Acts 4:32-37)

 
 

Do you have any people like Barnabas in your life? Barnabas was known as a leader in the early Christian church. We really do not know much more about him, but what we do know is enough to love him. Luke tells us his Jewish name was Joseph but he was such an inspiration that the apostles gave him the nickname, Barnabas, meaning "Son of Encouragement." He is first mentioned in the book of Acts. We assume he is somewhat wealthy, or at least wealthy enough to own property and selling it. We then learn of his outstanding example of generosity when he sold a field that he owned and then took the money to the apostles to distribute to those in need.

In Acts 9:27Barnabas is also seen encouraging the great evangelist Paul. Paul, who was originally Saul of Tarsus. Saul had made a name for himself persecuting and killing Christians. After his radical conversion experience, Paul went right to work preaching that Jesus was the Sonof God but many Christians were understandably suspicious of his motives. However, Barnabas befriended him and even took him to the apostles in Jerusalem for an introduction. What I find refreshing about Barnabas is that he risked his own reputation and credibility in doing so. However, Barnabas cared more about exalting Christ and advancing His Kingdom than he did his own.

InActs 11, we read of Barnabas encouraging new believers in Antioch. Barnabas wasdescribed as a good man, confident in the Holy Spirit. Many people came to faith in Christ with his help. During this time, Barnabas went to find Paul and brought him back to Antioch, where they worked together for a while.

Later, Barnabas stood up to Paul in defense of a young disciple, John Mark who had failed Paul's expectations on an earlier missionary journey. The single-minded Paul wasn't going to take a chance on a repeat performance, letting nothing get in the way of his priority of spreading the gospel. You can understand Paul's passion, but Paul forgot about the lessons of encouragement Barnabas gave him. Paul went on his own way and due to this, Barnabas went another, taking John Mark under his wing. His objective was encouraging and building a future leader in the church.

As I read about Barnabas, I see a man who had a close walk with God. He was willing to give his personal wealth to help the less fortunate. He was confident enough in the Holy Spirit's leading that he trusted and befriended the repentant persecutor of Christians.

Barnabas went out of his way to help new believers in their walk with Christ. He was strong enough to stand up to the dynamic Paul, knowing his place was that of an encourager. Barnabas fulfilled God's purpose for him. God also has a plan for all of us. He has a job for you,although it may not be what you expect.

 
 

I have run into a number of notable people throughout my ministry career. Some have even been celebrities. But the people I remember the most never aspired or received any earthly acclaim. They stand out to me because of the love and the encouragement they gave. You may never be asked to preach, teach or work in the mission field. God's work for you may be that of an encourager. You may be asked to encourage new believers in their faith. It may be as simple as stepping out of your comfort zone to be a friend, giving a smile or a handshake. The young lady featured in the attached photo inspired millions of young women to join our country's workforce while their husbands were fighting overseas in World War II. While the dear lady who posed for the graphic died in relative obscurity a few months ago, it is clear to us that her encouragement in this simple pose helped us to win that war over sixty years ago! We neverknow where something so simple is going to lead.

Have a blessed day!

 
 

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