Devotion:
Read Acts 9:19b-30.
Has your past ever come back to haunt you? Well, that’s what happened to Paul. After Paul’s dramatic conversion and baptism, he stayed on in Damascus and preached Christ in the synagogues there. A number of the Jews conspired to kill Paul, so he escaped from Damascus. When he arrived in Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples there. He apparently tried to make amends for his former hatred and persecution, but the Jerusalem believers were filled with skepticism and fear. Enter Barnabas. Barnabas whose name means “Son of Encouragement” told the apostles of Paul’s conversion and the good things he had done in Damascus. Paul was able to move about freely in the Christian circles after Barnabas testified on his behalf. God used Barnabas in a very influential way in building up the Early Church. His encouragement helped Paul to move forward in ministry. When our past comes back to haunt us, it’s good to have an encourager like Barnabas.
Personal Worship Option:
Thank God for the encouragers in your life who’ve helped you to move forward. Ask God to show you someone to encourage this week.
No comments:
Post a Comment