Encouraging Others

Scripture:
Acts 11:22-26 (NIV)

News of this reached the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.

Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.

Devotional:

When was the last time you said something encouraging to someone?  When I was a freshman in high school I ran cross country.  There was a definite difference when you had someone giving support and encouragement.  You would run a little faster and farther.  When running all alone it was easier to just slack off a little.  Something that has always stuck with me over the years was something our coach would tell us.  When you are dead and feel that you cannot run any longer.  When you feel there is nothing left you still have 10% to give.  He pushed and encouraged his runners to give more, run faster, run longer.  

Who have you encouraged lately?  Who are you lifting up with encouraging words?  Who are you helping to strive a little harder and longer?  It is way too easy to tear someone apart.  In just a few words you can devastate someone for many years.  With just a few words you can help build them up for a lifetime.  You never know what you say that will stick with someone over the years.  Barnabas encouraged people to “…remain true to the Lord…” Acts 11:23.  Barnabas along with Saul remained in Antioch teaching.  Together Barnabas and Saul changed many lives.  Whose life can you change?  How many people do you either directly or indirectly effect with a little encouragement?