Day 310

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Barnabas and Paul on Journey Depicted

Scripture

November 5—Acts 13-15: First Journey of Paul

Observation

Syrian Antioch becomes the missionary center of the early Christian church, and Barnabas and Saul become the first itinerant evangelists. Their travels take them to the island of Cyprus, the homeland of Barnabas, before they turn north to the shores of Asia Minor. In each new urban center, Paul's strategy is the same to enter the Jewish synagogue and proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ to the Jews first. Only when the message is rejected does Paul turn to the Gentiles. Jewish opposition forces Barnabas and Paul to move ever onward: from Antioch . . . to Iconium . . . to Lystra . . . to Derbe. At last, they return to Antioch where they report to the church and seek to resolve the issues arising from newly-converted Gentiles in the previously all-Jewish congregation.

Application

Thought for the the Day: How many potential "Pauls" will you encounter today who, in order to help reach their full potential in Christ, need a word of encouragement from a "Barnabas"?

It would have been easy for Barnabas to view Paul as a threat, to respond to him with envy rather than encouragement. After all, the Holy Spirit had said, "Dedicate Barnabas and Saul for a special job" (13:2). Wasn't that a clear indication who was to be the leader? But as Paul's ministry blossomed on that first missionary journey, Barnabas rejoiced . . . encouraged . . . and took a "backseat." Result: "God's message spread all through that region" (13:49).

Encouragement costs you nothing to give, but it is priceless to receive. Pick one person in whose life you can seek to be a "Barnabas" today by offering a word of sincere encouragement.

Prayer

Loving Father, in the midst of the hustle-and-bustle noise and strife of conflicts that we are facing today, we become very still before you. While we are soldiers of the cross, we count on your reinforcement to carry on. Refresh our soul, strengthen our faith and help us fight the good fight to overcome our adversaries for your glory. We pray this in Jesus' precious name! Amen! 

Be a Soldier for Jesus Christ!



© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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