“You have been chosen for this recognition because of the encouragement and inspiration you bring to your readers.”

I was thrilled to receive this nomination from Michelle, the Mimosa Blossom. Thank you, Michelle.

Barnabas has been one of my favorite characters in the Bible from the moment I heard a minister speak about him. Why? Because he is known as the son of consolation.

If you search your concordance or Bible app for Barnabas, you’ll find several things about it. We meet Barnabas in Acts 4.

And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet. Acts 4:36-37 (KJV)

And that was just the beginning. When reading Acts, one may get carried away with Paul’s life. But nestled among Paul actions, is the story of Barnabas. For instance, when Paul came to Jerusalem desiring to join the disciples, they were afraid and didn’t believe Paul was truly a Christian. It was Barnabas who collected Paul and brought him to the disciples and told them of Paul’s conversion. Later, Barnabas traveled with Paul until Paul refused to take John Mark with them on a mission trip. Rather than leave John Mark behind, Barnabas chose to travel with him while Paul chose Silas as his traveling companion.

Do you see the pattern?

Barnabas helped those in need. His actions encouraged his friends to keep going. Barnabas was a son of consolation, or as other translations say, son of encouragement.

The way this works:

Thank the person who nominated you and share their blog.

Think of five bloggers that encourage and inspire you and nominate them.

List five things about yourself.

Lastly, ask your nominees five questions. Why five? Because it is the number that signifies grace.

Nominees:

First, let me say, I know how busy life can be, so if for any reason you cannot post an article, please, do not worry about it. I receive encouragement for my spiritual walk, writing, and family life through so many blogs that I only wish to share my appreciation. Encouragement is why I blog. The rule states five nominees. So here goes . . .

Melinda Inman

Jeanne Takenaka

Karen Friday

Wendy MacDonald

Melissa McLaughlin

5 Things About Myself:

I love Jesus. I run to Him first.

I’m hopelessly in love with my husband.

I’m working on two projects (fiction and non-fiction).

I’m a farm girl.

I am an introvert.

The Questions

Question: Who in your life is your biggest encourager?

Answer: My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

Question: How do you see yourself as being an encouragement to others?

Answer: Through my friendships, hugs, and blog

Question: When was the last time someone gave you words of encouragement?

Answer: This past week

Question: When you’re down, what encourages you to get back up and keep pressing on?

Answer: God’s Holy Word, worship music, encouraging articles

Question: Who was your greatest encourager when you first accepted Christ?

Answer: Holy Spirit as He led me through the Word and in prayer.

Thanks again, Michelle! My Questions for the nominees are the same as above.