Acts 9: 26 – 27 (NIV)
26 When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple.
27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus.
God brings different kind of people at different seasons of life to take us closer to fulfilling our purpose. Anyone that comes into your life to help you get closer to achieving your purpose is that destiny helper.
Barnanbas was pivotal in the success of Paul’s ministry. Barnabas taught Paul scriptures. He brought him the right hand of fellowship. Paul didn’t just show up, He had a tutor too. He had a teacher, apart from the revelation he received privately from Jesus, he was tutored and mentored by Barnabas. Barnabas was the man that introduced Paul to rest of the Apostles.
He was the first to publicly endorse the apostleship of Paul. History affirms Barnabas a sound teacher, he was highly prophetic and that he has abundance of revelations. Barnabas was an early leader in the Christian church through his financial gift to the apostles in Jerusalem (Acts 4:36). He had a father’s heart, he was also a son of consolation.
Barnabas’ relationship with Paul began when he introduced him to the apostles in Acts 9, but his mentoring relationship started when Barnabas recruited Paul to help him teach the new followers of Christ in Antioch (Acts 11:25-26). Barnabas guided Paul during his development from a novice follower of Christ to the greatest propagator of the faith in the early church.
A destiny helper may not be that millionaire or some individuals who have invested in your dreams. They can come in as a domestic staff, a cook, a driver, a nanny or in a conversation.
Just as we have destiny helpers, there are also destiny destroyers. Some one can supoort you as from the outset, but they’ll later become a stumbling block. The very person who once cheered you on is now a potential threat to your destiny.
Discernment is key in fulfilling God’s plan. You must know when to start, pause, reflect, retreat and fire up again. You must know when a season is over; you must also train yourself to let people go. When you force it, you fracture your soul.
Purpose is a life long journey. Pay attention to every detail and every one that comes into your life. Be open to give everyone a fair opportunity in your journey, don’t write anyone off, don’t forget to entertain strangers, some have entertained angels unaware!
Remember, God often exceeds our expectations and the people we have thought would come through don’t always show up! God will send many Barnabas to your life. Discern them and allow them carry their roles in your life. Amen!