And when he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples. And they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and declared to them how on the road he had seen the Lord, who spoke to him, and how at Damascus he had preached boldly in the name of Jesus. So he went in and out among them at Jerusalem, preaching boldly in the name of the Lord. And he spoke and disputed against the Hellenists. But they were seeking to kill him. And when the brothers learned this, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus. So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace and was being built up. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied. – ACTS 9:26-31

PROTECTION FROM OUR PAST.
We all have made mistakes. Unfortunately, many people have a hard time looking beyond who we used to be. We all need someone like Barnabas who will stand up and speak for our new life in Christ.

PROTECTION FROM OUR PREDATORS.
Sometimes they are obvious as an old friend trying to pull you back into old bad habits. Sometimes they are sneaky like a husband being “romantic” with ice cream when the wife is dieting. We all need friends who will circle the wagons and help us defend against our enemies.

PROTECTION FROM OUR PERSON.
Paul’s conversion gave the apostles a brilliant scholar, teacher, and story for their mission. But they sent him away. We all need leaders in our lives who understand the bigger picture and will push us out of our comfort zone to be where God wants us to be.

Can you name people like Barnabas that would defend you against doubters?

Who are some people around you that are watching over and encouraging you?

Are there people in your life that motivate you to be more than you think you can be?