Do you have a Barnabas in your life? from "His Kindness Year Round"



Acts 9:26-27 “When Saul arrived in Jerusalem, he tried to join the followers.  But they were all afraid of him, because they did not believe he was a true follower!  Then Barnabas helped him by taking him to the apostles.  He explained how Saul had seen the Lord and how the Lord had spoken to him.  Barnabas also said that when Saul was in Damascus, he had spoken bravely in the name of Jesus.”

I recently heard a pastor teaching Acts 9.  He gave a personal testimony of an occasion in which he was ministering where he knew no one.  Until, God placed a ‘Barnabas’ in his life.  Barnabas stepped up from the others in the church body and community to be a friend; to support this pastor and introduce him to the church and the vicinity; to help the newcomer feel welcome and give him the sense of belonging, without the minister asking for help.  ‘Barnabas’ was a gift from God.

We aren't mind readers, and often people need to speak up and ask for assistance when needed.  But there’s also nothing wrong in asking someone from time to time if there is anything you can do for them.  Or in doing a deed of kindness, just because.  When you know one in need, or when someone desires to experience the treasure of a friendly face and the sense of belonging, please don’t think everyone else will be the ‘Barnabas’.  Step up and take the role. 

I understand we are busy and have our own trials.  But as I've said more times than you've wanted to see, even a smile or greeting is a precious gift to give another.

God shows us kindness year round. Extend your kindness.  Be a ‘Barnabas’.

2 Corinthians 6:1 “As God’s partners, we beg you not to accept this marvelous gift of God’s kindness and then ignore it.”

Philemon 1:6-7 “And I am praying that you will put into action the generosity that comes from your faith as you understand and experience all the good things we have in Christ.  Your love has given me much joy and comfort, my brother, for your kindness has often refreshed the hearts of God’s people.”

If you have one true, not superficial, Barnabas in your life, you are deeply blessed. More than one is priceless.

Your sister in Him,

Robin