The Barnabas Principle

One of my favorite men in the Bible is Barnabas. He was known as an encourager. In the book of Acts (4:36), we're told his name even means "Son of Encouragement". Throughout the New Testament, Barnabas is seen financially supporting the ministry of the apostles (Acts 4); was one of the first to support Saul following his conversion (Acts 9); and is an early missionary to other cities (Acts 11 and following).

As an outpouring of his faith in Jesus Christ, Barnabas is consistently seen serving, doing good works and helping others. He is a supporter, and true to his name, an encourager. He saw what could be, how things could be better, and he did his part to see those things come to fruition. That is the type of man I want to be. That is the type of man we are trying to teach our sons to become.

Recently, I had the opportunity to take my son Parker (8) to the Tennessee vs. Missouri football game. The outcome was a disappointing overtime loss, dropping the Vols overall won/loss record to 4-6. As we exited the stadium, the mood was entirely negative, save for a few rowdy Mizzou fans. Some people walked out quietly in disbelief that the season had turned out this poorly. Others were angry and talking loudly (some using less than appropriate language). Others just seemed disappointed.

In the midst of the crowd, as we circled the ramps leading out of the stadium, Parker looked up at me and quietly said, "Hey, you know what, if we win the next two games, we'll be bowl eligible". In that moment, I realized we're raising a Barnabas.

Granted, Parker didn't understand the ramifications of a what a losing football program means at UT. Losing means financial loss. Losing means a frustrated fan base. Losing means more painful change. But he did know that if you win the next two games, you qualify to keep playing. And that's a good thing.

Here's The Point: All too often we look at a situation and see only negatives. We see pain and hurt and we get frustrated. People are ready to give up on a marriage, on their education, on a family member.

We'd do well to remember that with just two more wins, we'd be bowl eligible. And to follow the Barnabas principle.