Being Women of Influence

Everyone says I have the gift of encouragement.  For the most part, I think it’s true.  I come alive when given the chance to encourage.  My writing ministry is geared towards encouraging others.  I believe God gave me the gift as small group leader, for that is when the encouragement started to blossom. 

Paul writes about Barnabas, whose name means Son of Encouragement.   Paul had a sorted background before he came to know the Lord.  He went around dragging believers to jail and participating in their demise.  When the Lord got Paul’s attention and turned him around, the believers were afraid to accept him.  But Barnabas took Paul in when none of the other believers would. Barnabas was a godly influence on Paul.  He took him in, encouraged him in the Lord.

We all need a Barnabas in our life.  Who is your Barnabas?  They may come in different forms.  They could be a family member or a neighbor.  Maybe they are a coach or teacher.  They could be a co-worker or fellow church member.  Whoever they are they have godly influence on you.

I am blessed to have more than one Barnabas in my life. The first is a neighbor of mine.  She has always been there to listen to my woes and point me back to the truth.  Not only does she speak truth but her life is an encouragement to me.  The way she chooses to live her life is a wonderful godly influence. She has been through much hardship and yet she is always praising God and reminding herself and me of God’s promises.  The second Barnabas I am thankful to God for is a co-worker of mine.  You see, along with being a small group leader there is a burden for others that can be overwhelming at times.  Just when I was starting to become discouraged asking God who’s going to encourage me, God graciously brings Diane into my life.  She came along side of me, prayed for me and talked about this burden I carry for my small group members.   She is a truth teller, great encourager and godly influence.

Yes, we all need encouragement through a godly influence.  We can receive encouragement directly from God and His Word.  Although sometimes I think the best encouragement is from another human being.  Someone who has been through what you are going through and can remind you of God’s promises.  If you have a Barnabas in your life, thank God for them.  If you don’t, I highly recommend you get connected with one. 

©Elizabeth Marks author of ThinkOnItBibleDevotions.com and BeingWomenOfInfluence.com has a heart for encouraging others with God’s Word.

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