Everyone Needs Encouragement

Scripture:
Acts 15:36-41 (NASB)

After some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us return and visit the brethren in every city in which we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.” Barnabas wanted to take John, called Mark, along with them also. But Paul kept insisting that they should not take him along who had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work. And there occurred such a sharp disagreement that they separated from one another, and Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus. But Paul chose Silas and left, being committed by the brethren to the grace of the Lord. And he was traveling through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.

Devotional:

Have you ever had a disagreement with a fellow believer?  Did you not see things the same way?  Did they not stand up to your expectations?  There are times when we each of us may stumble, fall, or make a mistake.  Just remember that whoever you are in conflict with is still a chosen child of God.  

When Barnabas wanted to take John Mark he and Paul had such a disagreement they went separate ways.  To be honest I had always thought Paul was wrong.  After all each of us make mistakes and we all stumble from time to time.  John Mark needed some encouragement.  He needed someone to help him get back up and on track.  Barnabas did just that.  In fact later on Paul and John Mark reconciled their differences.  2 Timothy 4:11 (NASB), “Pick up Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for service.” 

John Mark was able to not only get back on track with God, doing God’s work, but he and Paul reconciled to the point where Paul specifically asked for him.  Who do you see that has stumbled?  Are they struggling to get things right in their lives?  Maybe you are the one God is calling to help them.  Instead of driving them away, like Paul, reach out and help them, as Barnabas did.  

Everyone needs encouragement or a helping hand from time to time.  It is OK to disagree with others.  Just remember that even if you disagree God loves them as much as He does you.  When two of my daughters fight I dislike their fighting.  I love each of them equally.  I hate to see them argue and fuss with one another.  I take great joy in seeing them getting along and playing together.  God loves each party equally.  He doesn’t like to see His children fighting amongst themselves.  He would prefer to see us getting along working together for His glory.