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Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus by birth, the one the apostles called Barnabas (which is translated Son of Encouragement), sold a field he owned, brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet. Acts 4:36-37 CSB
Being called by what you are is impressive. Being called a Christian means you are someone who follows Christ. No fear. No embarrassment. No apologies. But how impressive would it be to have the nickname “Encourager”?
The apostles met Joseph and gave him a new name that connected what he was with what he was called. They chose the name Barnabas. That name told those he met that he would always be quick to offer some much-needed encouragement.
Some people can’t encourage others very well because they have not been encouraged themselves. They can’t model what they’ve never witnessed.
Most of us like spending time with someone who encourages us. If you’re not used to that, it can feel like a cold drink on a hot day, a full plate of food after skipping a meal, or a breath of fresh air after an afternoon in a musty cave. We all need encouragement at times. It whets our appetite for more. It increases our thirst. It makes us desire more deep breaths. Take it all in. Send it back out.
Prayer: I need to be encouraged, Lord. I need to encourage. Send the first. Give me the courage to share the second.
Being called by what you are is impressive. Being called a Christian means you are someone who follows Christ. No fear. No embarrassment. No apologies. But how impressive would it be to have the nickname “Encourager”?
The apostles met Joseph and gave him a new name that connected what he was with what he was called. They chose the name Barnabas. That name told those he met that he would always be quick to offer some much-needed encouragement.
Some people can’t encourage others very well because they have not been encouraged themselves. They can’t model what they’ve never witnessed.
Most of us like spending time with someone who encourages us. If you’re not used to that, it can feel like a cold drink on a hot day, a full plate of food after skipping a meal, or a breath of fresh air after an afternoon in a musty cave. We all need encouragement at times. It whets our appetite for more. It increases our thirst. It makes us desire more deep breaths. Take it all in. Send it back out.
Prayer: I need to be encouraged, Lord. I need to encourage. Send the first. Give me the courage to share the second.
