The Encourager

“Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch.
“When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord” (Acts 11:22-23).
 
During the dispersion from Jerusalem, Christians were scattered to several provinces, taking with them the word of the Lord. They, in fact, had much success; and many, including some Gentiles, obeyed the gospel.
 
When the church in Jerusalem heard of this success, they sent Barnabas out; and he was happy with what he saw. As a result, he encouraged them to continue in their devotion to the Lord.
 
So, Barnabas became an encourager; that is, one who gives support and advice to others so they will do better—one who stimulates others to move forward and grow.
 
What better service could a person be to others than to stimulate them to greater spiritual maturity. We all need that. We need encouragement so that we can keep our spiritual journey on the right path and so that we can grow in Christ.