"Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”)," Acts 4:36
Did you know that yesterday was The National Day of Encouragement? Neither did I. As a matter of fact, I didn't even know there was such a day until I heard my favorite morning radio deejays discussing it as I enjoyed my early run. It seems the Encouragement Foundation at Harding University launched the effort in 2007 as a way to promote individuals to extend comfort, confidence or hope to those in need of support by offering positive words of reassurance and approval.
And when it comes to encouraging others, you and I would do well to follow the example of one of "the apostles called Barnabas (which means "son of encouragement)..." who practiced that very thing each and every day. It seems everywhere he went he inspired others to keep pressing on. The Bible tells us that because of Barnabas' encouragement to Paul and Mark, Paul was first accepted by the church in Jerusalem and Mark was given a second chance after failing to complete his first missionary journey. In fact, Barnabas's patient encouragement with Mark was a huge boost to the success of Mark's later ministry. What a blessing Barnabas was to them!
Need yet another reason to lift up your neighbor? Consider the words of Zig Ziglar, "When you encourage others, you in the process are encouraged because you're making a commitment and difference in that person's life. Encouragement really does make a difference." So may each of us today, and every day, strive to follow the example of Barnabas and make a difference in the lives of others.
Heavenly Father, thank you for those people who bless others with the right words at the right time. Help us to be filled with the joy of the Lord each day that we might be known as encouragers and in this way draw others to you. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
I'll find you-Tori Kelly with Lecrae
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