Dorcas - Favored By Her Giving

In the book of Acts - chapter 10 we learn about a woman named Dorcas ("Tabitha").

Dorcas was an ordinary woman who truly believed in God. She spent her life constantly doing things for others especially giving to the poor.

There came a time when Dorcas became ill and she passed away. As is customary and through their grief her friends washed her body and prepared her for burial. Laying her in the upper chamber for viewing.

It was at that time that Peter had come to Joppa spreading the news of the goodness and blessings of the Lord to all those who believe.

When these friends of hers heard of his presence they sent two men out and begged Peter to come to them. Being a diligent servant of the Lord Peter went with them.

Upon his arrival Peter was escorted to the upper chamber where Dorcas was laid at rest. In the room there were many widows weeping about her passing. When Peter entered they began to show him the beautiful garments that Dorcas had so unselfishly made for them.

Seeing their pain he asked them to leave the room. Peter then knelt beside her body and prayed.

When he had finished his prayer he turned to the body and said "Tabitha arise". She instantly opened her eyes and upon seeing it was Peter she sat up. Peter then stretched forth his hand and Dorcas got up from where she had been laid.

Peter then called all the saints and widows and presented Dorcas to them once again alive and well. What a glorious time it was for the word was spread throughout the land.

When I read this passage it made me think of how wonderful it would be to be so favored by our Lord by our giving so unselfishlessly to those less fortunate than ourselves that he would give us life again.

In essence that is what his promise is to us today. Over and over again we find scripture that talks about helping the poor. Giving to them and helping them through their troubled times.

Proverbs 22:9 (KJV) He that has a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.

Wouldn't you say that Dorcas was blessed with a renewed spirit due to her undying generousity to the poor.

Are you feeding the lambs, taking care of the sheep?

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