Acts 11:23 (ESV) – “When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose.”

We live in a world where it is easy to point out what is wrong. We notice weaknesses, mistakes, and flaws quickly. But the Bible shows us a better way—a life that lifts others up.

Barnabas is a great example of this. His name means “son of encouragement,” and he truly lived it out. When the church in Jerusalem heard about what God was doing in Antioch, they sent Barnabas to check on the believers. When he arrived, he did not start by correcting people or finding problems.

Instead, he saw the grace of God. He looked for what God was doing in their lives—and he rejoiced. Then he encouraged them to stay faithful to the Lord.

Barnabas teaches us a powerful lesson: Encouragement begins with seeing God’s grace in others.

He also showed courage in lifting others up. When Saul (who later became Paul) was rejected and feared by believers, Barnabas stood with him, believed in him, and helped others accept him. Because of Barnabas, Paul’s ministry was able to grow and impact many lives.

What does this mean for us?

Sometimes people don’t need criticism—they need encouragement. They need someone who will notice God’s work in their life, celebrate their growth, and remind them to keep going.

Encouragement is not just kind words—it helps people stay faithful to God. Who can you encourage today?

Ask God to help you see His grace in others. Speak life. Strengthen their faith. Point them back to Christ.

Because when we encourage others, we help build their faith.

Prayer:

Lord, help me to see Your grace in others. Teach me to encourage, not discourage. Use my words to build faith and strengthen someone today. Make me a person who lifts others closer to You. In Your name. Amen.