First Word for July 2024

While I was in Africa, I felt the Lord reminding me to look closely at Barnabas.

Barnabas means “son of encouragement” (Acts 4:36). Upon Saul’s conversion, only Barnabas was willing to stand by Paul and be his advocate (Acts 9:26-27). What stands out to me the most is that he was able to see the grace of God in others and was glad. 

Acts 11: 23-24 says, “When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord.”

Barnabas had eyes to look beyond the imperfections of a church that had just been planted and see the grace of God. Not everyone can see the deposit of God's grace in the lives of others, especially in newer saints. But Barnabas could, and that is why he had such a remarkable gift for encouragement. 

Not only that, but Barnabas was glad! Faith not only sees grace—it delights in grace. This is what we want to do here at Lifehouse. We want to create an atmosphere and culture of encouragement and joy in the grace of God where people can flourish.

- John Privett