In his letters to the churches at Ephesus and Corinth, the apostle Paul tells all Christ followers that God’s Holy Spirit living within us gives us specific and varied spiritual gifts to be used for building and strengthening His Church. Paul’s missionary companion Barnabas consistently and fully applied the spiritual gift of encouragement that he had been given. In fact, the nickname Barnabas that the apostles gave him means “son of encouragement,” reflecting his obedience to God’s calling. Barnabas’ gift of encouragement isn’t as spectacular as some other spiritual gifts like prophecy and healing. But encouragement from the Holy Spirit given through God’s chosen vessels like Barnabas is nevertheless vital to the health and strength of the Church, and indeed the world at large.
