ENCOURAGEMENT

Acts 9:27
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.

Saul in Damascus and Jerusalem

27 Then Barnabas brought him to the apostles and told them how Saul had seen the Lord on the way to Damascus and how the Lord had spoken to Saul. He also told them that Saul had preached boldly in the name of Jesus in Damascus.

No other New Testament character illustrates the ability to encourage more strongly than Barnabas, whose name means “Son of Encouragement.” The apostles were afraid of Saul. He had a reputation of zealotry and cruelty. It is no wonder they questioned his confession of faith in Jesus Christ. As a Pharisee, Saul had hunted down and prosecuted followers of Christ.

It was Barnabas who stood in the gap beside Saul, leading him to the apostles and testifying concerning his conversion and bold preaching for Christ. Barnabas encouraged the apostles to bless Saul’s ministry.

We, like Barnabas, can offer words of support to a family member, coworker or peer. A little bit of encouragement can go a long way toward motivating those around you. Look what Barnabas’ support did in the ministry of Saul (Paul).