God's Sons and Daughters of Encouragement (Humility)

 

At first, his name was Joseph.  But then the apostles like Peter, James and John gave him a new name.  They called him 'Barnabas'.  This means 'son of encouragement.'  

When we read about him in the Scriptures we see some of his encouraging acts of grace and mercy.  He sold a field and brought all the proceeds and set it at the apostles' feet.  The money could then be used to feed the poor and/or to go to preach the good news message of Jesus to others.

Saul, who had been systematically persecuting Christians, got saved.  The Christians were afraid of him and wouldn't allow him to join them, fearing trickery.  However, Barnabas discerned Saul's sincerity and brought him to the apostles, indicating that he believed Saul was truly the Lord's.

I believe Barnabas' actions stemmed from his humility.  This became one of his strengths.  He didn't need to show off  but instead, he quietly found ways and means to encourage others.  He became a bridge for Saul, who later became known as Paul.  This Paul became a mighty man of God, who had great and far-reaching spiritual effects over the millenia, even to us today.  We can attest to these by reading the New Testament, which was mostly composed of Paul's letters to various churches and individuals of yore.

As James 4:10 (NIV) says,

"Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up."

Not only you, but others too.  Lifting another up may encompass lifting them up from depression, needing a touch of tender, loving care that particular day and so much more.  Such empathy and compassion would help such a person to feel loved and happier, able to go throuigh their day and even to serve the Lord in greater capacity.

Let's pray we can each grow in humility that makes us sons and daughters of encouragement too.  Who knows, your gift may become your new name.

Heavenly Father, thank You for all the times You sent someone to encourage me, someone who was a humble encourager.  May I too grow in humility, and in turn, be able to lift another up in Your name.  I ask in Jesus' name.  Amen.

                                                  ~ ERC  February 2026 ~

Based on James 4:10; Acts 4:36-37 and 11:21-22, 25 & 26 ESV.

Sing, Thy Will, along with Hilary Scott.