When he arrived and saw the grace of God,
he rejoiced and encouraged them all
to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart,
for he was a good man, filled with the Holy Spirit and faith.
Barnabas lives up to the meaning of his name: son of encouragement (see Acts 4:36). Maybe we take for granted the ministry of encouragement. But Barnabas shows us that this is a vital part of Christian life. It is more than just a pat on the back. It is a consolidation of momentum to keep moving forward. It is no coincidence that in a community which is encouraged in areas where it is doing well that a large number of people are added to the LORD. The parts of the community which are thriving are highlighted until they are, as it were, visible from space. Observers can't help but notice.
Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you
and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me.
Rejoice and be glad,
for your reward will be great in heaven.
Barnabas and Paul are both able to bear insults and persecutions and every kind of evil because of Jesus. They really do rejoice when it happens because they know they are partaking in the promise of Jesus. They are Christians and their identity is in Christ. The things of this world cannot ensnare them. They long for his Kingdom and his reward. They know that even their sufferings are made to work for their good. This makes them invincible missionaries. They can bring the most possible good into any situation they encounter.
We can be powerful like Barnabas and Paul as well. Indeed, in many ways that we don't appreciate we already are! Let us encourage one another today. Let us walk with ever increasing strength.
All the ends of the earth have seen
the salvation by our God.
Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands;
break into song; sing praise.
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