Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-A has come up with a new ad. They emphasize all the things their employees do to go the extra mile. They always say “My pleasure” when someone thanks them, and sometimes write messages of hope and love on their bags. Chick-fil-A is an amazing restaurant. They teach their employees to be kind and courteous. We have so many wrong forms of leadership. Isn’t it wonderful that there are businesses teaching their employees to be kind and courteous!
Acts 11:22-24 speaks about Barnabas in the city of Antioch. Barnabas was famous for his ability to inspire people. He was a good man, full of faith, and he prompted the new believers to “remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.” (v. 23) Barnabas’ real name was Joses. He was a wealthy Levite from the island of Cyprus (Acts 4:36-37). Barnabas lived up to his name which means “Son of Encouragement.” It was through Barnabas that Paul was accepted and trusted by Jerusalem Christians. In our scripture today, Barnabas encouraged Paul to come and teach the new believers.
New believers, like children, need lots of encouragement. They have lots of potential as they discover what they’re good at. There is so much against a new Christian, and all new Christians need lots of encouragement to grow in their faith.
I had a class one time where we had to write down what we liked about the person to our right and to our left. I kept the lists I received from the two sitting beside me for a long time. I went back and read and re-read those things which others like about me. The teacher knew that we all need encouragement. May we all give and receive encouragement as we grow in our faith.
Prayer: Father, give me someone to encourage today. Show me what to say and how to meet this person’s needs so You will be glorified.
Acts 11:23 – “Barnabas encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.”
By the Rev. Tommy Herndon
Image: Brad/Unsplash