Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the Mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.

 

In the 4th Chapter of the Book of Acts, we read that the multitude of believers came together as a community. They pooled their abilities and resources to provide for and protect each other. It was not “every man for himself” but rather “every man for another.” They were of one faith and one mind. The Word of God says They were all in one accord in one place. (Acts 2:1)

 

Not only were they gathered together in one place due to their faith in Christ, but they were also like-minded. And the multitude of them who believed were of one heart and of one soul: (Acts 4:32) This is the glue that held them together. It was their faith in Christ and Him Crucified and Resurrected. This has not changed but unfortunately, few fellowships of believers today are joined together in this manner.

 

In Acts 4:36, we are introduced to a man named Barnabas who was a believer in Christ and from Cyprus. And Joseph, who by the Apostles was surnamed Barnabas (which is, being interpreted the son of consolation) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus. (Acts 4:36) Cyprus is an island more than 250 miles from Jerusalem where the First Church was. Barnabas was born a Levite but was not a Priest. He was a kind-hearted man who brought comfort to people. He had a Pastor’s heart; a Shepherd of the flock who took time to listen and never gave up on anyone.

 

The Church needed a man like this, so God laid it on Barnabas’ heart to sell his land and move to Jerusalem. Barnabas heard the Word of the Lord and was obedient to God’s call. Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the Apostles’ feet. (Acts 4:37) He sold his land and sowed the money into the Kingdom of God.

 

Barnabas’ heart was in the right place. His motives were pure. He knew what God was calling him to do and he did it. Barnabas had it made in Cyprus. He was a Levite! He could have gone on to be a Priest and have anything money could buy at that time. He could have gained the position, power, and prestige of a Priest and lived in a big, fancy house with servants but he chose Jesus. He chose to serve rather than be served. He realized that the things of this world cannot compare to living for Jesus and being a servant for Him.

 

What an example Barnabas is for all of us. He didn’t know what the Lord had planned for him but he obeyed anyway. God always rewards faithfulness and obedience. He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. (Hebrews 11:6)

 

Diligently seek Him and He will…..…….turn the tide……..in your life.

 

Though none go with me, I still will follow,         Doreen

 

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