Encouragement

Luke, in his book called Acts, writes about a man named Joseph, whose name was changed by the Apostles of Christ, to Barnabas. The name Barnabas is translated “Son of Encouragement.” (Acts 2:36)

We are not given much information as to why they changed his name – other than that he had made a contribution for the needy folks. Somehow, I think there must be more to the story. While I don’t plan to speculate what that might be, I do think we can learn something from this fleeting piece of information.

If there is a characteristic most folks would like to find in others it is “encouragement.” There are so many people, circumstances, and situations in our life which are discouraging. Perhaps our job is in jeopardy,  or our financial resources are running low, our health is fading, or its just been a difficult day in our life. Crossing paths with, or spending time with, or going home to an “encourager” is a great joy – and a progenitor of peace – in our life.

Finding someone to “discourage” us is easy. There never seems to be a shortage of folks who can “bring you down.” We see Barnabas again in Acts 11 – . . .and they sent out Barnabas. . .and he encouraged all of them to remain true to the Lord with a firm resolve of the heart. . .and large numbers of people were added to the Lord.

You might want to check to see what kind of affect you have on those around you, and if your life is a magnet drawing people to the Lord.

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