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PROGRAM D-8238
Would you like to be called Barnabas? The disciples called a man named Joseph, “Barnabas,” because he was such an encourager. Barnabas means Son of Encouragement, so I’m encouraging you to become a Barnabas where you work. You do this by deciding to do things for your coworkers and management which will encourage them.
I’m sharing some ways you can encourage others on the job. They are often very small things you can do that take little time or money, but they can truly make a difference. Here are some more creative ways you can be a Barnabas on the job:
- Offer to help your boss: Instead of running from work or assignments, ask your boss what you can do today to help him or her—especially if you know that your boss is under a lot of pressure. Bosses need help just like everybody else, yet often they are overlooked.
- Be sensitive to the sniffles: Working while you’re sick isn’t easy. When those in your work environment suffer from colds, give care packages. Items such as cough drops, soup, tissues, tea or peppermint will provide relief and help them get through the day.
- Acknowledge good work: Even if you’re not a manager, you notice when coworkers do good things—and often they are not acknowledged. You could acknowledge it with a word, an email, or a written note just to let them know that someone notices the effort they put into a job and it was appreciated.
- Offer to pray for a coworker: There are many times when a coworker shares a worry or concern with you, either personal or job-related. Instead of allowing it to degrade into a griping or gossip session, simply offer to pray for that person. You may not be able to pray at that moment on the job, but you can assure them that you will remember that situation in prayer. I believe you’ll find that some coworkers will begin to share prayer requests with you when they realize that you’re willing to pray for them.
- Listen: If a coworker wants to share a problem with you, take the time to listen and give that person your devoted attention. Obviously, you need to be careful not to take advantage of time you should be working, but a listening ear can be one of the most encouraging things you can do for a coworker.
If you become a Barnabas on the job and are intentional about encouraging people, you will be amazed at how God will use you right there as a beacon of his light and love.