Acts of the Apostles 13:44-52
This is what the Lord has commanded us: “I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.” —Acts 13:47 (NIV)
When my son was in kindergarten, I had the pleasure of meeting Michelle, the mother of another student. I felt an instant connection with her—as if we were kindred spirits. Working full time while juggling parenting duties was overwhelming, but Michelle had a calming presence. I felt grounded when I was near her.
She invited me to a gospel concert one Friday night and then to church. I hadn’t been to church in years, but I said yes. No doubt it was the Holy Spirit working in me.
I felt that this friendship was God’s divine work. Michelle was my Barnabas—my encourager. Barnabas found Saul and brought him to Antioch, planting him in a community that God was growing (see Acts 11:25-26). They were traveling companions on a missionary journey.
I am so thankful for the faithful friends God has placed in my life as my traveling companions. I need encouragement. I need the example of other believers living out their faith. I’m thankful for my encouragers, and I pray that I can be an encourager for others. Friends are truly a gift from God.
Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, thank you for the people who encourage us in our faith. Help us to sow seeds of encouragement for others with our words and actions. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Thought for the day: My words of encouragement can be a blessing to others.
Mandy Yatta (Mississippi, USA)
