'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.' (Acts 13.2-3, NIV.)

Acts 13 details the start of Paul's first missionary journey:

Commissioning of Paul and Barnabas: The chapter begins with the church in Antioch commissioning Paul and Barnabas for missionary work. The Holy Spirit directs this decision.
Preaching in Cyprus: Paul and Barnabas travel to Cyprus, where they preach the word of God in synagogues. They encounter Bar-Jesus, a false prophet, whom Paul rebukes for trying to turn the proconsul away from the faith.
Preaching in Pisidian Antioch: They journey to Pisidian Antioch and preach in the synagogue there. Paul gives a powerful sermon recounting Israel's history and how Jesus fulfills God's promises. Many Jews and Gentiles believe, but some Jews oppose them, leading to their expulsion from the region.
Turning to the Gentiles: Paul and Barnabas turn their focus to the Gentiles, spreading the Gospel throughout the region. The message spreads rapidly.
Opposition and Perseverance: Despite facing opposition and persecution, Paul and Barnabas continue to preach boldly, relying on God's strength.

“Brothers, if you have a word of exhortation for the people, please speak.” Standing up, Paul motioned with his hand and said... "Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses." (Acts 13)

Today there is a big problem with mental health; we need encouragement. That is exactly what the Apostle Paul does in the latter half of the chapter. He speaks of the miracles of the Old Testament; how God brought the people of Israel out of Egypt by signs, wonders and miracles; how they spent 40 years in the wilderness because of lack of faith; how God gave them judges until they wanted a king, first Saul, and then David - ‘who was a man after God’s own heart’. And then from the ancestral line of King David came Jesus.

The chapter concludes with Paul and Barnabas departing from Pisidian Antioch, shaking the dust off their feet as a symbolic gesture against those who reject the Gospel, and moving on to preach in Iconium.

The word of the Lord spread through the whole region. But the Jewish leaders incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region. So they shook the dust off their feet as a warning to them and went to Iconium. And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit. (Acts 13:49-52, NIV.)