During this time some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. One of them, named Agabus, stood up and through the Spirit predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world. (This happened during the reign of Claudius.) The disciples, as each one was able, decided to provide help for the brothers and sisters living in Judea. This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.
Acts 11:27-30 NIV
https://bible.com/bible/111/act.11.27-30.NIV
God always prepares people who encourage others during times of adversity. Not only was there a great scattering of the church because of persecution but a prophet spoke of a pending famine. Barnabas was in the right place at the right time to minister to those in need. The scattering of believers led to the growth of new congregations. These same congregations gave a helping hand to those who were having it rough during the famine in Judea and Jerusalem. And no one played a crucial central role like Barnabas. Together with Paul, he encouraged the new believers in the faith besides being a link man for the support flowing from them to the believers in Jerusalem. When tough times come our way, God always prepares us. He sends voices to warn us like prophets. But He also prepares His body to support parts of His body that are in need. When the body of Christ undergoes suffering, God prepares part of His body to be a blessing. He also prepares men and women who participate in the ministry of encouragement during these tough times.
LIFE SCRIPTS 
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