First Baptist Church, Lagrange, Georgia

Our world desperately needs more encouragers like Barnabas, whose name literally means 'son of encouragement.' True encouragement goes far deeper than simply saying nice things—it requires sacrifice, as Barnabas demonstrated when he sold his valuable property to support others. Genuine encouragers see potential when others find flaws, exemplified by how Barnabas vouched for Saul (Paul) despite his history of persecuting Christians. They are also future-oriented visionaries who recognize God's work even when it doesn't fit expected patterns.Encouragers invest in others for the long term, as Barnabas did by spending a year teaching alongside Paul in Antioch. They focus on the mission above personal glory, willingly stepping aside when others rise to prominence. When people fail, encouragers respond with patience and grace, as Barnabas did with John Mark after he abandoned their missionary journey. Finally, true encouragers understand the power of multiplication—how their investment in others creates a ripple ef