In what ways can we emulate Tabitha's dedication to helping those in need? Tabitha’s Snapshot from Acts 9:39 “Peter got up and went with them, and when he arrived, they led him to the upper room. All the widows stood beside him in tears, showing him the tunics and other garments that Dorcas had made while she was with them.” What Made Tabitha Stand Out • Tangible compassion: Widows held physical evidence—tunics and garments—of her love. • Consistent service: “while she was with them” points to a lifestyle, not a one-time gift. • Local impact: Her ministry was rooted in her own community of Joppa. • Quiet influence: No recorded speeches—only deeds that spoke loudly. The Heart Behind Her Hands • Overflow of faith: “faith working through love” (Galatians 5:6). • Obedience to Christ’s teaching: “I was naked and you clothed Me” (Matthew 25:36). • Devotion to good works: “Our people must learn to devote themselves to good works, meeting urgent needs” (Titus 3:14). Practical Ways to Mirror Tabitha Today Clothe the vulnerable – Donate quality clothes, not castoffs (James 2:15-16). – Learn basic sewing or mending to extend the life of garments for families in need. Care for widows and the overlooked – Visit retirement homes or shut-ins (1 Timothy 5:3). – Provide rides to appointments, groceries, or church. Use marketplace skills for ministry – Turn a craft, trade, or business into a channel for generous giving (Proverbs 31:13, 20). – Offer job training or mentorship to single parents or refugees. Serve locally and personally – Join or start a neighborhood food or clothing pantry. – Keep extra gift cards on hand for immediate needs you notice. Stay consistent – Schedule regular service times the way Tabitha evidently did. – Set aside a portion of income each month specifically for benevolence (1 Corinthians 16:2). Guarding Our Motives • Remember whom we’re serving: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.” (Matthew 25:40). • Keep humility central: “Let not your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” (Matthew 6:3). • Depend on God’s strength: “We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.” (Ephesians 2:10). A Legacy Worth Leaving Tabitha’s simple acts of kindness warranted an apostle’s urgent journey and prompted many in Joppa to believe (Acts 9:42). By weaving compassion into ordinary tasks, we showcase the gospel, honor Christ, and leave behind testimonies that outlast us—just like the tunics that testified of Tabitha long after she was gone. |
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