Encourlel, the adversary, seeks to distract and discourage, but we are called to counter this with encouragement, embodying the spirit of *paraklesis* (G3874), which means encouragement, consolation, comfort, exhortation, and entreaty. Barnabas, known as the son of encouragement, exemplified these qualities, as seen in Acts 4:36, where Luke translates his name to reflect this trait. His actions consistently pointed others toward the hope of the coming Kingdom of God, as in Acts 11:23, where he encouraged the members in Antioch to continue with the Lord with purpose of heart. The power of *paraklesis* is evident in the letter from the council in Jerusalem to the Gentile brethren in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia, as recorded in Acts 15:30-31. When they read the letter, which relieved them of unnecessary burdens, they rejoiced over its encouragement, finding hope in the assurance that they could pursue salvation without first adhering to Jewish law. However, worldly consolation, as Jesus warns in Luke 6:24, falls short, offering only temporary relief through material wealth, unlike the eternal hope provided by Christ. True consolation comes through Jesus Christ, as Paul emphasizes in Romans 15:4, where he states that the Scriptures provide patience and comfort (*paraklesis*), fostering hope. This hope, rooted in the expectation of fulfillment at Christ's return, as expressed in I Thessalonians 2:19, is further reinforced in II Corinthians 1:5, where Paul notes that as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so does our consolation through Him. Like Barnabas, we can offer great help and comfort to one another by embodying this spirit of encouragement, pointing others toward the eternal promises of God.

The spiritual gift of exhortation, derived from the Greek word *paraklesis* (G3874), encompasses a range of meanings such as encouragement, exhortation, and comfort, with the specific nuance determined by context. This gift focuses on urging individuals to embrace the practical duties and truths of God's way. True exhortation is not about highlighting faults but about inspiring others toward the joy of living according to God's path. It serves as a vital tool for uplifting and strengthening the church, fostering a spirit of motivation and support among its members.

The gift of exhortation, derived from the Greek word *paraklesis* (G3874), falls under the category of practical service and gifts of sympathy. This term carries various meanings such as encouragement, exhortation, or comfort, depending on the context, with encouragement being a primary focus. The role of the exhorter is to urge others toward the practical application of God's truth. Exhortation must always be encouraging, never disheartening, and should focus on inspiring individuals to embrace the joy of living according to God's way, rather than pointing out faults or problems. While it may occasionally address areas of correction, the emphasis remains on positive reinforcement to guide others in the right direction.