Encouragement in Action

Encouragement is one of the most powerful ministries in the body of Christ—and one of the most underutilized. Acts 4:36-37 introduces us to Joseph, better known as Barnabas, whose name means “son of encouragement.” Among thousands, he stood out—not because he preached or led—but because he lifted others up.
 
His encouragement had four main expressions:
he was a generous giver (Acts 4:37), a compassionate friend (Acts 9:26-27), a team player (Acts 11:20-26), and a forgiver of the fallen (Acts 15:39).
Each act of encouragement echoed the work of the Holy Spirit, who also comes alongside to help us.
 
Not everyone is called to preach, but all of us can be encouragers. That might mean speaking life into a discouraged friend, supporting someone who’s been overlooked, or forgiving someone others have written off. Like Barnabas, we can be the reason someone doesn’t give up.
 
Encouragement is contagious. Because Barnabas encouraged Mark when he had failed, Mark later became “useful” even to Paul. Imagine the legacy of your encouragement—what if someone becomes a key part of the Kingdom because you chose to believe in them?
 
Scripture:
Acts 4:36-37 - Now Joseph, a Levite of Cyprian birth, who was also called Barnabas by the apostles (which translated means Son of Encouragement), and who owned a tract of land, sold it and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet.
 
Application:
Write a note, send a message, or make a call to someone who needs encouragement today.
Choose one of the four traits of Barnabas and put it into practice this week.
 
Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for placing encouragers in my life. Make me one, too. Help me to speak life, give hope, and lift others with the same grace You've shown me.