February 4, 2010 - Acts 11:24

“He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.” Acts 11:24.
Barnabas, a follower of Jesus who had the nickname, “encourager,” was sent to Antioch in order to check out the stories that Gentiles were becoming followers of Jesus. The leadership in Jerusalem must have recognized Barnabas’ character and his gifting, and they entrusted him with the responsibility of assessing this new move of the Holy Spirit in Antioch. Interestingly enough, after his arrival, it is stated that a “great number” became followers of Jesus evidently because of his work among them. In early church history, it is interesting to note that this same city of Antioch was, in a short amount of time, to become a transitional center of the Christian faith, which was moving from Jerusalem toward Rome.
Barnabas’ work there was very important, yet on his initial entry into the city, he most likely was not aware of how valuable his presence would be to the early Christian movement there. At this point, he was said to be a “good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith.” To me, that sounds like what a normal disciple would be. It is amazing what God can do with a person of good character, who makes himself available to be used by the Holy Spirit.
Questions to consider: How available are you to the Holy Spirit? Has your character been developed to a place where you could be used by God in any way that He desires? How does your character get worked on? In what areas are you strong? In what area is your character not so strong? What can be done about that?
Prayer: Father, I am available to be used by You, if You so desire. Please continue to work the character in me that You desire, and please do it in Your way for Your purposes. Amen.