How can we prepare for unexpected events like Tabitha's death in Acts 9:37? Setting the Scene—Acts 9:37 “At that time, she became sick and died, and they washed her body and placed her in an upper room.” (Acts 9:37) Recognize Life’s Fragility • James 4:14—“You do not even know what will happen tomorrow…” • Psalm 39:4-5—David asks to know “how fleeting” life is. • Ecclesiastes 9:12—No one knows their time. By taking these verses literally, we accept that sudden loss is a real possibility for every family and church. Ground Our Hope in Christ’s Resurrection • John 11:25-26—Jesus is “the resurrection and the life.” • 1 Corinthians 15:20-22—Christ’s resurrection guarantees ours. • 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18—We grieve, yet with hope. When death comes unexpectedly, the unshakable, historical fact of Jesus’ empty tomb steadies our hearts. Live a Life of Active Service Now • Acts 9:36—Tabitha was “abounding with deeds of kindness and charity.” • Ephesians 2:10—We are “created in Christ Jesus for good works.” • Galatians 6:9—“Let us not grow weary in doing good.” Serve today; you may not get tomorrow’s opportunity. Keep Relationships Current • Ephesians 4:32—“Be kind and compassionate… forgiving each other.” • Romans 12:18—“Live at peace with everyone” as far as it depends on you. • James 5:16—Confess and pray for one another. Resolve conflicts quickly; sudden separation leaves no time for overdue apologies. Steward Temporal Resources Wisely • Proverbs 27:1—“Do not boast about tomorrow.” • 1 Timothy 6:17-19—Store up treasure “as a firm foundation for the coming age.” • Proverbs 13:22—“A good man leaves an inheritance.” Practical tools—wills, life insurance, emergency funds—express love and foresight. Cultivate a Prayerful Readiness • Luke 21:36—“Be always on the watch, and pray.” • 1 Peter 4:7—“The end of all things is near; therefore be alert and sober-minded for prayer.” Regular, focused prayer aligns us with God’s purposes before crises strike. Stay Connected to the Local Church • Acts 9:38—Believers immediately call for Peter; community responds. • Hebrews 10:24-25—Do not neglect meeting together. • 1 Corinthians 12:26-27—When one member suffers, all suffer. A committed church family provides spiritual, emotional, and practical help when calamity hits. Anticipate God’s Power in Crisis • Acts 9:40-41—The Lord restores Tabitha through Peter. • Psalm 46:1—“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” • Ephesians 3:20-21—He is able to do “immeasurably more.” Never assume a trial ends the story; God may yet display His glory. Practical Steps at a Glance • Spend unhurried time in Scripture daily. • Memorize key promises about life, death, and hope. • Keep short accounts with loved ones—extend forgiveness quickly. • Serve in a ministry that meets tangible needs. • Draft or update will, power of attorney, and medical directives. • Build an emergency savings fund. • Keep a list of church and family contacts for crises. • Share your salvation testimony so others know your eternal hope. • Pray regularly for readiness, wisdom, and trusting hearts. Putting It Into Practice Today Start with one action from the list above—perhaps a heartfelt phone call, a fresh commitment to morning devotions, or setting an appointment to organize your affairs. Small acts of obedience now prepare you, your family, and your church to face the unexpected with confidence anchored in the sure, literal promises of God’s Word. |
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