Scripture
Acts 9:27-28a “Then Barnabas brought him to the apostles and told them how Saul had seen the Lord on the way to Damascus. Barnabas also told them what the Lord has said to Saul and how he boldly preached in the name of Jesus in Damascus. Then the apostles accepted Saul.
Observation
Barnabas was a friend and mentor to Saul. He helped Saul by:
1) Introducing him to the apostles. He opened doors for Saul that he could not open by himself.
2) Barnabas defended Saul. He told the apostles about him seeing Jesus on the road to Damascus.
3) Barnabas promoted Saul’s ministry. He told them about how he boldly preached Jesus.
The result was the apostles accepted Saul because of Barnabas’ influence. Barnabas used his influence to benefit Saul and the kingdom of God.
Application
I need to make mentoring a priority. I need to pour my life into a few men with potential to do great things for God. I need to open doors for them. I need to teach them. I need to defend them and promote their ministries. Saul became the greatest missionary ever but it began with Barnabas helping him. Everyone needs the help of someone else.
Prayer
Show me how to do this correctly. Give me men to pour my life into. I desire to raise up a generation of ministers. Make this more than just a momentary thought but make it a reality.
