Barnabas
Scripture:
22 News of what was happening in Antioch reached the church of Jerusalem, so the apostles sent Barnabas to Antioch as their emissary. 23 When he got there and witnessed for himself God’s marvelous grace, he was enthused and overjoyed. He encouraged the believers to remain faithful and cling to the Lord with passionate hearts. 24 Barnabas was a good man, full of the Spirit of holiness, and he exuded a life of faith. Because of his ministry even more crowds of people were brought to the Lord! 25 Barnabas left Tarsus to find Saul and bring him back to Antioch. 26 Together Saul and Barnabas ministered there for a full year, equipping the growing church and teaching the vast number of new converts. It was in Antioch that the followers of Jesus were first revealed as “anointed ones.” (Acts 11:22-26 The Passion)
Barnabas the encourager! He truly was a good man that was full of the Spirit of holiness and lived a life of faith. When the apostles heard about the large number of people who were believed in Antioch, they knew who to send to help with teaching and example. Barnabas later went for Saul of Tarsus (he had earlier been an encourager of him in Jerusalem) and together they taught and equipped the growing church in Antioch. Barnabas the encourager was always that!
Father, it is so important to have people like Barnabas; those who encourage and help in the church. Help me to encourage and to help where needed. AMEN
Lord, I want to bring You the sacrifices You desire. I want to always bring You my true and sincere thanks. I will show You my gratitude by thanking You for Your promises to me. Psalm 50
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