Finding Good Trail Partners
Scripture:
Acts 11:22-24 (NASB95)
The news about them reached the ears of the church at Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas off to Antioch. Then when he arrived and witnessed the grace of God, he rejoiced and began to encourage them all with resolute heart to remain true to the Lord; for he was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And considerable numbers were brought to the Lord.
Cowboy Wisdom:
On a long cattle drive, you learn real quick that the quality of your trail partners matters more than just about anything. You need folks who are steady in the saddle, who won't spook when things get rough, and who keep their eyes on the destination. Barnabas was that kind of man—good, Spirit-filled, faithful, and always encouraging others to stay true.
The church didn't send just anybody to Antioch. They sent someone who would rejoice in what God was doing instead of criticizing it. They sent someone who would build people up instead of tearing them down. That's the kind of partner you need when you're breaking new ground for the Kingdom. Notice how the Scripture says considerable numbers were brought to the Lord—not because of fancy programs or slick strategies, but because a good man full of the Holy Spirit showed up and encouraged people. Character matters more than credentials when it comes to advancing God's work. Barnabas could have shown up looking for problems or trying to control everything, but instead he saw the grace of God and rejoiced. That's the mark of a man who's more interested in seeing God glorified than in building his own reputation or maintaining his own comfort.
Questions for Reflection:
What qualities made Barnabas the right person for this mission?
Who in your life encourages you to remain true to the Lord with a resolute heart?
Are you the kind of person who rejoices when you see God's grace at work, or do you look for problems?
Prayer Focus:
Lord, make me a Barnabas to others—someone who is good, full of Your Spirit, full of faith, and full of encouragement. Help me to rejoice when I see Your grace at work, and give me a resolute heart to stay true to You.
