Day 171 - Nehemiah 12-13 & Acts 4:23-37
There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need. Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, sold a field that belonged to him and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet. (Acts 4:34-37 ESV)
“Son of encouragement,” what a great title for a follower of Jesus! We will see this title lived out in the ministry of Barnabas in later chapters.
The concept of encouragement is most often evident in encouraging words, words that build up the person they are directed toward. However, in the lesson for today, we find Barnabas encouraging His fellow believers by his actions. He sold a field and donated the proceeds to the church.
How encouraging it is when Christians extend a helping hand to others in need! Today there are fellow Lutherans, and many others too, helping out the victims of natural disasters around our country. Donations to food pantries, mission trips, and support of A Place of Refuge are all examples of encouraging action.
The greatest encouraging action of all time took place on Mt. Calvary when Jesus died in our place and purchased heaven for sinners like you and me.
Thank You, Lord Jesus, for the encouraging example of Barnabas. Thank You for the many Christians who are following that example. Thank You, above all, for Your death in my place and for granting me the encouragement of my eternal home. In Your encouraging name. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf
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