The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength

The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength

Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement) Acts 4:36 NIV

His given name was Joseph. He was a wealthy and generous man whose nickname was Barnabas. Given to him by the apostles, the name Barnabas is explained in Acts 4:36 to mean son of exhortation or consolation. It was an appropriate name for him because Barnabas was an encourager of every one who knew him. He is described as a “good man, full of the Holy Ghost and of faith” (Acts 11:24).

Barnabas was the kind of man you could look to for inspiration, assistance and support. Being “full of the Holy Ghost” (Acts 11:24) he was a man full of “ joy” (Galatians 5:22). Wikipedia states, "The Greek word for “joy” is chara, derived from the word charis, which is the Greek word for “grace.” This tells us that chara (joy) is produced by charis (grace) of God. This means “joy” isn't a human-based happiness that comes and goes… Rather, true “joy” is divine in origin… it is a Spirit-given expression that flourishes best in hard times. Joy resides in one’s spirit to produce victory; to provide fulfillment; and to protect against oppression.

The dictionary gives the meaning of the word joy as the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying; keen pleasure; elation: a source or cause of keen pleasure or delight. All of these meanings of the word joy we are so what familiar with. But did you know that joy is not just something it is someone. Joy is something or someone greatly valued or appreciated.

My friend, Barnabas was a lot like Jesus, both were the kind of men who always looked for the best in people. What about you? Are you a consistent encourager? When you show up do people light up? When you show up are you greatly valued or appreciated because of how you greatly value and appreciate others? Do those around you experience joy when you come around? Do you compliment and build-up or do you criticize and complain? James 5:13 says, ”Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.” In other words, if you’re unhappy, tell God about it in prayer and in private. If you’re happy, tell everyone about it. Let today be the day you spread your joy by being an encourager of others.