Twice this week,(once in a quiet time and tonight at church) I have been reminded of Barnabas-the encourager (Acts 11:23). I am so thankful for those in my life that take the time to encourage me. I pray that my words will always be an encouragement to others and that I will always be ‘aware‘ of those in need of encouragement. Barnabas was ‘aware’ of what God was doing in Saul’s life before he ever became Paul (Acts 11:25-26). People had every reason to question Paul’s sincerity and many had major reservations (Acts 9:13-14,21). I think, sometimes, it is easy to forget that we are on the same side and we hurt others with our words rather than encouraging growth with our lives and words.
Praying tonight, that we rise up to the call of encouragement. Ananias was a righteous man but he was very quick to judge Saul (Paul) based on ‘reports’ from others. I see words of encouragement as an amazing alternative to words of discouragement that can dishearten and even paralyze those who are on the same team.
“But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.” Hebrews 3:13
Why, because we ALL fail and fall! Who did you encourage or discourage this week with your words?
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