THE PROOF OF ANSWERED PRAYER

THE WORD SIROCCO
Saturday, May 9, 2020

Month Theme: The Sons of Oil

Topic: Sons of Consolation

Scripture Reading: Acts 4:31-37

Main Text:
Acts 4:36
36 And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son (huios) of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,

A consoling man is called a son of consolation, a peaceful man is called a son of peace and a God-like person is called a son of God. Barnabas was called the son of consolation (Acts 4:36). Son of Consolation means Son of Prophecy or Son of Rest. Barnabas earned that name because of his character. The apostles may have watched him spend his life consoling the brethren and strengthening those who were weak. When there was a need to go strengthen the believers who had escaped to Antioch after Stephen was killed, it was Barnabas who went (Acts 11:19-25). He was a good man and full of the Holy Ghost and faith.

When the apostle Paul went to Jerusalem, in the early days of his conversion, it was Barnabas who accommodated him. At the time, the other believers and apostles were afraid to get close to the young Paul. He encouraged the young apostle and helped him get on his feet (Acts 9:22-28). Paul received acceptance because of Barnabas. Later in their ministry, Barnabas sacrificed his partnership with Paul because he wanted to give John Mark a second chance, after John Mark had disappointed them earlier (Acts 15:36-41). Barnabas parted ways with Paul, and took John Mark with him.

We must believe God to carry the grace of a Son of Consolation. We need be sources of encouragement to people. People should be our focus. Many in the Church are wounded, while others are struggling to join the fast lane the Church is moving on. Without Sons of Consolation, the struggles of such people will continue. The first mention of Barnabas was in relation to his passion to alleviate the sufferings of people. He sold his piece of land, and gave the proceeds to the apostles to be shared amongst the brethren (Acts 4:37). May we not turn a blind eye to pain of others, especially in these interesting times of COVID-19. Be the reason someone will have food to eat. Be the reason someone will smile again. Be the reason someone will be encouraged.

Prayer: Pray that you will be a Son of Consolation.

Recommended Reading:
“The Sons of Oil” by Eastwood Anaba
(Find e-books at http://www.amazon.com)
http://www.eastwoodanaba.com