Full of Grace and Encouragement. Prayer, Too!

Matterofprayer: A Year of Everyday Prayers – Monday, April 13, 2015

Full of Grace and Encouragement. Prayer, Too!

Barnabas is mentioned just a few times in the book of Acts, but always with such encouragement! That was Barnabas, all over. (I’m talking about Acts 11, now.)

Yes, I have some of the gift of encouragement. I enjoy building up others with the joy of God. If people are doing something right, my first impulse is to comment and tell them so!

I wonder. How often do others have that impulse?

The other leaders in the beginning of church movement wanted to check out what was going on in Antioch. They were truly led by God in their choice of investigators. Who better to investigate, verify and report back?

Dear God, help me to be encouraging, positive, loving and caring with others. And when I get placed in situations where others are doing something questionable, Lord, help me to always follow Your will and ways, especially when dealing with others.

@chaplaineliza

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(also published at www.matterofprayer.net

Act of Charity—Carried Out

Matterofprayer: A Year of Everyday Prayers – Thursday, February 12, 2015

Act of Charity—Carried Out

I was a little surprised by the prayer suggestion for today. It’s an action, not necessarily a prayer. Well, sort of both. I’ve been told I have some of the gift of encouragement. I sure used it today.

I was supposed to plan an act of charity for someone in need. And, endeavor to carry it out. I think I did that. Not quite as actively helpful in the way of doing something—like I posted on my other blog, where I helped out a senior citizen by vacuuming her apartment. But all the same, I think it counts.

Here’s the basis for the act today. I have a friend, some distance from here. She has had continuing difficulty with an acquaintance for a number of months, on and off. I have been praying for her and the situation. Today, I wrote her an encouraging email. I let her know I think her handling of this continuing situation is (and has been) just superb. I really mean that.

I think encouragement helps! Truly.

In the book of Acts, Barnabas was one of the early followers of the risen Christ. He was also a great one for encouragement. That’s what his name means. Imagine, being so encouraging to his fellow believers that they chose a new name for him? Specifically, “Son of Encouragement.” What’s more, Barnabas was living through some very uncertain times. I suspect it was not easy for him to act as a positive, encouraging voice, as one who assists others and is a fine example of how to act, even though times are difficult.

So, how did I realize God was there, through this act of charity? My friend thanked me for my continued prayers, and appreciated my reassurance. Plus—those things I wrote? They just seemed like the right things to say. True, and honest. Genuine. I hope and pray that my words were a comfort and support to my friend, reaching out through her computer and giving her a big hug.

Charity = love = encouraging email. Works for me; I hope it worked for my friend. I pray so!

Like what you read? Disagree? Share your thoughts with your loved ones and continue the conversation.

Why not visit my sister blog, “the best of” A Year of Being Kind.