How significant do you think you are in the grand scheme of things? Have you questioned your impact on your community and by extension, to the world? It is very easy for us to overlook the power of our words and deeds. However, the Bible shows a compelling example of a person who made a significance different through encouragement. He is known as the Son of Encouragement. He is Barnabas.
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)
Barnabas was a man who saw potential in others, and he invested in their growth. He was a builder of people.
Saul was a persecutor of Christians. He hated their guts. When he had an encounter with Jesus, he is transformed into one of the greatest evangelists of all time. He was one of the very first missionary. However, not many believed him initially. Barnabas chose to believe him. Look how Paul turned out.
Some of us are called to be teachers, preachers, shepherds, etc. We each have a different calling. However, I believe everyone can be an encourager. The Bible tells us our tongue has the power to give life or to destroy life. Similarly, our words or actions have the power to build up or tear down. We can choose to be an encourager like Barnabas, bringing hope, faith, and love.
News of this reached the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord. (Acts 11:23-24)
Let us strive to be like Barnabas, filled with the Holy Spirit and faith. Let us look for opportunities to encourage others, to build them up, and to help them discover their potential. Remember, even the smallest acts of kindness can make a world of difference. At every encounter with others, make it a goal to make someone’s life a little better.
Being an encourager does not mean being a flatterer or a yes man. We need to be real. In the coming days, try the following. Be generous. Volunteer to help. Flash your smile. Pat someone at the back. Give someone a hug. Give a listening ear. Sit quietly with someone. Point out the positive aspect of a plan. Give constructive comments. Pat a dog (that is the cynophilist in me).
I invite you to say this prayer.
My Father, thank you for the example of Barnabas. Help me to be a source of encouragement to those around me. Grant me the wisdom to see the potential in others and the courage to speak words of life. May my actions reflect your love and grace. Make me an instrument of peace. I prayer in the name of Jesus. Amen.
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