Our Scripture reading today is Acts 9:26-27.
Verse 27, "But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus."
The Apostle Paul wrote over two-thirds of the New Testament. I have often wondered
about what if Barnabas had not been willing to speak up for Paul. The three words that
are highlighted truly show us the heart of the man called, the son of consolation. Little
did he know who he was encouraging and influencing. Little did he know that one day
there would be ministries named after him. The other disciples were a little nervousabout being
in close proximity with someone who had recently oversaw the killing of Christians. More than
likely, you and I would have been nervous too.
Take the time today to be led of the Holy Spirit to be a Barnabas. Be someone who is
willing to go out of their way to encourage someone that others want nothing to do with.
Be willing to go outside of your comfort zone to speak the truth in love to whomever God
leads you to. Who knows, you could be encouraging a future missionary!