If you’re scratching your head thinking “Wait. What happened? Barnabas Blessings? I thought this was The Published Journey. Is this right? Am I in the right place?” Yes! Same blog, different name. Let me explain…

Who is Barnabas?

Acts 4:36 introduces Joseph, nicknamed by the apostles, Barnabas, meaning Son of Encouragement. He was known for his service to others, a good man, full of the Holy Sprit and full of faith. He gave generously of his resources. He encouraged those around him in their life and faith. He cheered for the underdog and offered acceptance to the outsider. He was a grace giver. He didn’t just talk the talk, he walked the walk. Read more about Barnabas here.

Why Barnabas Blessings?

Nearly 15 years ago, at a time in my life when I desperately needed encouragement, I was compelled to pay it forward and thus began “Barnabas Blessings.” Along the way “Barnabas Blessings” became a book (a slow but steady work in progress) and my blogging focus turned to my journey and musings as a writer (“The Published Journey”). But sometimes God leads you back to the first thing, the main thing that you are so uniquely wired for, the thing that flows so naturally you might miss the significance. Encouragement has always been the undercurrent of this blog so the name change is simply a return to the Creator’s blueprint.

Why Jesus?

Just in case there was any question…Jesus is the reason for everything. I am who I am because of my faith; a personal, committed relationship with Jesus Christ that I pray informs every expression of my being. Some would have you believe you have to jump through hoops and make yourself worthy to come to Jesus, but He says simply, “Come.” No matter who you are, no matter what you’ve done, He loves you and invites you…baggage and all.

“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” -Matthew‬ ‭11:28‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“However, those the Father has given me will come to me, and I will never reject them.” -John‬ ‭6:37‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” -John‬ ‭3:16‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.” -Romans‬ ‭10:9-10‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Finally, whoever you are and however you’ve come to this space… Welcome and Be encouraged!

Blessings,

LaShona