Return and Encouragement - Pt. 7: Back to Base

Baptist Daily Devotional
Aug 15
2 min read

Rev Tetteh-Annor Larbi | August 15 2025 | Acts 14:21-28

KEY VERSE: “And they stayed there a long time with the disciples.” Acts 14:28 (NIV)

MESSAGE:

After a long and challenging missionary journey filled with miracles, opposition, and growth, Paul and Barnabas returned to Antioch—their sending church—and stayed there “a long time with the disciples.” This wasn’t a vacation or retirement; it was a time of refreshing, reconnecting, and rebuilding in the presence of fellow believers. Even the most zealous servants of God need a place to rest and reset. Ministry is not a nonstop sprint—it’s a rhythm of going out and coming back.

Returning to base allows Paul and Barnabas to be replenished after giving out. It's a reminder that no one is called to run on empty. Christian life and leadership require healthy cycles of retreat and renewal. These moments “back at base” with trusted community help restore vision, rebuild strength, and remind us that we’re not alone. Resting is not a sign of weakness — it is wisdom.

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

Every believer needs a “base”—a spiritual home, a circle of believers, or a fellowship where they are known, refreshed, and encouraged. Whether you’re in a season of mission or in a time of return, embrace the value of being with the disciples. Let your soul breathe, your heart be strengthened, and your story be shared. From that place of rest, God will prepare you again for what’s next.

PRAYER:

Father, thank You for places and people that refresh the soul. Teach me the balance of going and returning, and help me find strength again among the disciples. For Your dear name’s sake. Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!

The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 227: 1 Chronicles 27–29 — Offerings and David’s Final Words

DAILY word study: STAYED The word 'stayed' in Acts 14:28 comes from the Greek diatribō, meaning “to spend time” or “to remain for a while.” It conveys more than just being in a location—it’s about engaging, connecting, and sharing life together over a season.

For Paul and Barnabas, staying in Antioch wasn’t idle time. It was an intentional time to strengthen relationships, restore energy, and prepare for future missions. This word invites us to consider that lingering with God’s people is as much a part of ministry as going out to serve.

Reflect on This:

How are you making space to “stay” with the people who refresh your faith?