Eighty-four days…

Tonight I was in a room full of women.  We were enjoying each other’s company by laughing, participating in witty (sometimes sarcastic) conversation, and shopping for jewelry all at the same time.  It was a great girl’s night.  Most of us who were in that room are very strongly connected.  We have history.  We’re comfortable with each other and gladness seems to bubble when we spend time together.

There is something beautiful that takes place within healthy, godly female relationships.  When one is feeling down about herself, another is quick to lift her up.  We see the good in each other and aren’t ever shy to share it.  We really are a sisterhood of sorts.  We differ in age, come from different backgrounds, have different body types, different hopes and dreams, and yet we all find ourselves linked together.

Having these types of relationships push us through difficult times in life.  The Apostle Paul had Barnabas.  Barnabas, According to Acts 4:36, literally means son of encouragement.  Everybody needs a Barnabas in their life.

Acts 4:36

And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated son of encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus. (N.K.J.V.)

I’ve read some other Bible translations which say, “son of comfort.”  Either way, all of us need someone to lean on every now and then.  My prayer for all of you is that you find a Barnabas.  I hope you have someone to lift you up when you are feeling down, someone to make you smile and laugh when joy seems impossible, and someone who is down on their knees praying for you when you need it most.  And in times when everything seems right with the world, I hope you giggle together with childlike innocence.  I’m thankful for all the wonderful “Barnabas’s” in my life.  I love them all.

Lastly, don’t forget to be a Barnabas.  It’s a privilege to encourage and comfort others.