Act 11:27-30, 27 And in these days prophets came from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 Then one of them, named Agabus, stood up and showed by the Spirit that there was going to be a great famine throughout all the world,…29 Then the disciples, each according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brethren dwelling in Judea. 30 This they also did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.
Barnabas demonstrated his willingness to serve, despite the limited resources he possessed. This is evident in Acts 4:36, where he, like others, recognized the needs of those around him. He decided to sell a piece of his own property and brought the proceeds to the apostles, showing his commitment not only through his time but also through his financial contribution. Moreover, Barnabas was known for his trustworthiness, as the elders entrusted him with the responsibility of providing support to fellow believers.
It is important to understand that serving the Lord goes beyond possessing gifts; one’s character must also align with these gifts. While gifts may have their limitations and may diminish over time, character endures. The Bible describes Barnabas as a good man due to his faith and character. In 1Cor 14:12, it encourages individuals who are enthusiastic about spiritual gifts to prioritize using them for the edification of the church. Barnabas, along with other disciples, excelled in their service because they had a solid foundation. As mentioned in 2Cor 8:5, they first dedicated themselves to the Lord before extending their service to others, guided by the will of God.