In a world full of criticism, competition, and division, what do people experience when they are around you? It is easy to focus on problems and write people off, but a person filled with the Holy Spirit learns to see the grace of God where others only see issues.
In this powerful message from the book of Acts, we introduce Barnabas—the "Son of Encouragement." Barnabas wasn't just a nice guy; he was a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit whose life made the character and grace of Jesus visible.
This message reveals the three kinds of people Barnabas was able to see differently, and where you might find yourself in their stories:
The Outsiders: Welcoming those who feel they don't belong and recognizing that the church is not an exclusive club, but a community of grace.
The Suspect: Looking past someone's dark past to see what God is actively doing in their present.
The Failure: Extending a second chance to those who didn't finish and declaring that failure does not get the final word in Jesus.
Our ultimate hope isn't simply trying harder to be better, it is Jesus, the One who welcomed us, gave us undeserved grace, and restored us when we failed.
When you see the grace of God, rejoice, move toward those who need it, and go where He sends you!
Scripture References: Acts 11:19–24, Acts 4:36, Acts 9:26–27, Acts 13:2, 13, Acts 15:37–40, 2 Timothy 4:11
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