At the heart of encouragement is the ability to communicate one’s value, potential and worth.  It is the shining of a light into the darkest recesses of a person’s soul where inadequacy and insecurity grow. Encouragement is about affirming all that is worthy in a person, so that from those places they can function from a point of success that is guided by their true north during the fruitful, as well as the frail times.

There is a little talked about person in the Gospel named Barnabas.  His name means, son of encouragement.  He was very instrumental in the making of the life and ministry of Paul.  Although Paul is VERY important, and one of my top three favorites of the Bible, it is the Barnabas types of the world who collectively are overlooked and substantially undervalued.

Behind every great Paul, there is a Barnabas that encourages, supports and fosters affirmation within them.  This is what being the body of Christ looks like.  We are not all famous, wealthy, sought after…but we each possess an ability within us to be someone’s Barnabas, and that is far more valuable than wealth, fame or any other perceived luxury this world has to offer.

You may not feel as you are a natural encourager, but it is an ability that can be perfected through practice. It is a gift that gives in return, and the dividends are priceless.   I encourage you to read about Barnabas.  He is very understated, but his gift is not overrated.

The gift of encouragement, it can redefine the course of a defeated day.  It can elevate someone from tribulation to triumph.  It is one of the most valuable gifts you can give away for free.  Encouragement is a one size fits all offering, and it is always exchangeable.  May we all give it away freely and abundantly.  In a world where what comes around goes around, let it be encouragement!  Thank you to all my friends who encourage me.  You are far more valuable than anything I could ever own.