Daily devotional · October 23
A Friend Who Vouches
“When Saul arrived in Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was a disciple. Then Barnabas brought him to the apostles and described how Saul had seen the Lord, who had spoken to him on the road to Damascus, and how Saul had spoken boldly in that city in the name of Jesus. So Saul stayed with them, moving about freely in Jerusalem and speaking boldly in the name of the Lord.”
Saul, newly changed, arrived in Jerusalem and the disciples were afraid of him. His past made him a risk. Then Barnabas took him by the hand, told the apostles what had happened and spoke on his behalf. That single act of trust opened the door to Saul's welcome. Barnabas's name means son of encouragement, and he earned it here. Every community needs people willing to stand beside someone with a doubtful reputation or a fresh start. Consider who once did that for you: a teacher, a friend, a stranger. Then ask who needs it from you now. Today, take one step to be a Barnabas: speak well of someone who is being overlooked, introduce a newcomer, or write a note of encouragement. Small acts of advocacy can change a life.
Prayer
Lord, make me an encourager who stands beside others and opens doors for them. Amen.