City Life Starter

Written by Megan Meier

The Word

“Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”), sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet.”

Acts 4:36-37

“But Barnabas took him [Saul] and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord.”

Acts 9:27-28

“He [Barnabas] was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith…”

Acts 11:24

Reflection

Barnabas wasn’t called “Son of Encouragement” for nothing. He was a leader who supported behind the scenes. His generosity with his money and his time motivated his new brothers and sisters during the early stages of Christianity.

Acts 11:24a says he was full of the Holy Spirit, he may have had a prophetic vision of Saul’s conversion, and even of who he would become. Whether this happened or not, Barnabas took a chance on Saul. Saul likely was extremely discouraged when people wouldn’t listen to him speak of Jesus, thinking he was trying to lure them into prison and death. I’d like to think Barnabas lived up to his name and encouraged Saul in his new life, to not give up and keep spreading the gospel message. He was the Son of Encouragement not only in the early stages of Saul’s journey, but when they became known as “Paul and Barnabas.” He might have, because Paul nearly single-handedly spread Christianity through the then-known world.

Application

What we see on stage, whether it’s a play, dance, or church service, is the result of MANY hours of hard work and preparation. Lots of work is involved behind the scenes: set up, take down, parking, volunteers to give face masks and help with safety waivers, and cleaning the church after the service, just to name a few. When we see a person who is on fire for God, that is the result of many Christ-followers investing in that person, and MUCH encouragement and prayer. Help is needed behind the scenes.

Will you be a Barnabas to someone?

Prayer

Dearest Lord, I pray that I make a positive difference for Your Kingdom today. Whether it’s seen immediately or not isn’t important, You see everything and You know everything. In Jesus’ name, amen.