"Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means 'son of encouragement'), sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles' feet."

Acts 4:36-37 (NIV)

Your reputation is built one choice at a time. Joseph from Cyprus could have remained just another face in the crowd. Instead, his consistent choices created a reputation that opened doors. The apostles themselves gave him a new name: Barnabas. This name reflected his character, not just his potential.

Names in biblical culture revealed character and calling. The apostles didn't randomly assign nicknames to new believers. They observed Joseph's behavior over time and recognized a pattern. He consistently encouraged others and built them up. In 1948, when Israel became a nation, they chose Hebrew names to reflect their renewed identity. Similarly, "Son of Encouragement" captured who Joseph had become.

Sacrificial giving demonstrates the heart behind the name. Barnabas didn't just speak encouraging words to people. He backed up his character with costly action. Selling his field and giving the proceeds showed his heart. His generosity proved that his encouragement came from genuine love.

Encouragement without sacrifice often feels empty and hollow. Many people offer cheap words of support during difficult times. Barnabas offered something much more valuable than empty phrases. He gave resources that cost him something significant. True encouragement often requires us to invest in others' success.

Character-based influence creates lasting impact beyond our personal presence. When Barnabas later advocated for Paul, people listened carefully. His reputation for wisdom and generosity gave weight to his words. Character opens doors that money and connections cannot unlock. It creates influence that survives long after we're gone.

Godseekers, your daily choices are building tomorrow's opportunities. Every interaction either builds or erodes your reputation for encouragement. People watch how you respond when others succeed or fail. They notice whether your words match your actions. Choose today to become someone whose character opens doors for kingdom purposes.

Prayer

Dear Lord, You have called us to be people of character who reflect Your heart. Help us build reputations that honor You and serve others. Give us generous hearts that back up encouraging words with sacrificial actions. Show us when to invest our resources in others' success. Make our character so solid that people trust our words and follow our leadership. Help us remember that every choice we make today shapes the influence we'll have tomorrow. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Personal Reflection

1. What reputation are you building through your daily choices, and does it reflect the character God wants to develop in you?
2. How can you move beyond offering cheap encouragement to providing costly support that truly helps others succeed?

Step of Faith

Today, I will back up my encouraging words with a sacrificial action that costs me something valuable.