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- Oct 26, 2007
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- 12,539
But Barnabas took him and brought [him] to the apostles. And he declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. Acts 9:27 NKJV
Things appeared hopeless for Paul after his long history of persecuting Christians. How could God bring new life to someone who appeared so set in his ways and so determined to destroy the work of God among many? Miraculous visions aside, Paul never would have stepped into his larger role in the church without the faith and encouragement of Barnabas.
Perhaps you feel like you have a long way to go before you are able to serve others effectively, or maybe you’re simply wondering whether you’ll ever have God’s life to share with others. It’s possible that the missing piece is someone in your community who can lift you up at a time of confusion and uncertainty. You may need to lean on the wisdom of a mentor or friend who can help you see the potential that God has stored in you.
As you take stock of your outlook and hope for the future, consider how someone else could make a difference the way Barnabas did. Perhaps you can also play that same role for someone who also needs that encouragement in the near future.
Prayer: Jesus, I trust that You can bring new life and restoration where I have no hope.
Things appeared hopeless for Paul after his long history of persecuting Christians. How could God bring new life to someone who appeared so set in his ways and so determined to destroy the work of God among many? Miraculous visions aside, Paul never would have stepped into his larger role in the church without the faith and encouragement of Barnabas.
Perhaps you feel like you have a long way to go before you are able to serve others effectively, or maybe you’re simply wondering whether you’ll ever have God’s life to share with others. It’s possible that the missing piece is someone in your community who can lift you up at a time of confusion and uncertainty. You may need to lean on the wisdom of a mentor or friend who can help you see the potential that God has stored in you.
As you take stock of your outlook and hope for the future, consider how someone else could make a difference the way Barnabas did. Perhaps you can also play that same role for someone who also needs that encouragement in the near future.
Prayer: Jesus, I trust that You can bring new life and restoration where I have no hope.
