Read: Acts 11:19–26
When Barnabas came and saw the grace of God [in Antioch], he rejoiced, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steady devotion; for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. Acts 11:23–24
God calls all kinds of people with a variety of gifts into ministry. Barnabas was not known for his great preaching, he was not known for his administrative abilities, nor he was he known for his intellect. Barnabas was recognized in the story of Acts for his generosity and his encouragement. He sold a field to support the early ministry of the apostles. He stood up for Paul in Jerusalem when the other apostles doubted Paul’s conversion. And in this story, Barnabas cheered on the newly formed Christian community in Antioch. Barnabas was an enthusiastic cheerleader—and God knows we all need that kind of encouragement from time to time. We need cheerleaders!
Who are you cheering on and encouraging today?
Lord, thank You for the many people You set in my path to encourage me on my way. Their applause, their cheering, and their support have been nothing short of divine. Thank you. Guide me to places and relationships where I can return the blessing. It is my turn to cheer. In Jesus’ name, I pray. AMEN.