Barnabas, whose name means "Son of Encouragement," was one of the early church’s most significant figures, though he often worked behind the scenes. He was the one who introduced Paul (then Saul) to the apostles after his conversion, when no one else dared to believe in his transformation. Barnabas stood by him, vouching for his character and his mission. “When Barnabas came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord” (Acts 11:23).

What stands out about Barnabas is his unshakable belief in others. He was an encourager at heart—always looking for the good, always lifting others up. His encouragement helped give Paul the platform he needed to preach the gospel to the Gentiles. Without Barnabas’s support, the early church may have struggled to accept the radically transformed Paul.

Barnabas shows us the power of encouragement—how believing in someone, speaking life over them, and coming alongside them can change the course of their ministry. His willingness to stand by others, especially those who had no one else, reminds us that we can be a lifeline to someone in need of support.

Today, ask God to help you be a Barnabas—an encourager, a supporter, someone who believes the best in others, even when they can’t see it for themselves. You have the power to change someone’s life by simply offering a word of encouragement, a hand of friendship, and a heart of faith.