"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer
Saturday, June 3, 2023 - Day 154 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 7:30-8:17; Psalm 122; Acts 4:32-37)
ENCOURAGING ACTION
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!
“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11 ESV)
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
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
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