Acts 13:2-3 “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ So, after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.” (NIV)

American culture celebrates independence. We admire people who chart their own course and accomplish their goals through determination and hard work. We honor the courage of pioneers who left family and friends behind to build new lives despite danger and uncertainty. But while God may call us to difficult assignments, He never intends for us to determine our own path, or carry out His work alone.

Scripture reminds us that apart from God we can accomplish nothing of eternal value. We need the Holy Spirit to fulfill God’s call to service, and we need other believers to encourage and support us along the way.

Barnabas and Saul provide a beautiful example. They were faithful leaders in the church at Antioch when, during a time of worship and fasting, the Holy Spirit instructed the leaders to set them apart for a special work.

Even after receiving this clear calling, Barnabas and Saul didn’t immediately pack up and leave. The church continued praying and fasting. Then the leaders placed their hands on them, publicly affirming God’s call and committing to support them.

This commissioning was significant. When difficulties came – and there would be many – Barnabas and Saul could remember that God had called them and fellow believers were standing behind them.

Later, Paul wrote to Timothy, “Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands.” Serving God is a sacred responsibility. Those called to leadership or ministry need prayer, spiritual maturity, and dependence on God because lasting spiritual fruit comes through His power, not our own abilities.

But God doesn’t call only those we consider important. God’s call to service extends to every believer.

Not everyone will serve in distant countries. Some teach children in Sunday School. Others share Christ with neighbors or coworkers, lead Bible studies, or answer the questions of friends searching for truth. Wherever God has placed us, we are called to serve faithfully, and we were never meant to do it alone.

So today, look for someone who is faithfully serving the Lord and encourage them. Pray with them. Tell them you are standing with them and asking God to strengthen and guide them. Your encouragement may be exactly what they need to keep going.

We are not pioneers struggling through life’s wilderness alone. We are God’s people, answering God’s call to service together. As we seek His will, depend on His strength, and encourage one another, He can accomplish far more through us than we ever could on our own.