Tabitha - A Woman of Destiny - The woman who rose from the dead

The woman who rose from the dead.


Dressing individuals may appear to be a straightforward task; however, it encompasses deeper meaning and significance. Providing clothing to multiple individuals without any expectation of reciprocity is a profound demonstration of generosity.

ONLY WOMAN CALLED DISCIPLE Tabitha is an exceptional figure who exemplifies this quality, renowned for her selfless charitable actions throughout history. Her legacy of compassion and kindness continues to inspire and resonate across generations. 

Tabitha is uniquely recognized as the only woman in the Bible to be called a disciple of our Lord Jesus Christ. Tabitha, was fondly known as Dorcas, the name Dorcas was of Greek origin and means "gazelle" or "deer." The gazelle symbolizes grace, beauty, and swiftness. She lived in the ancient port-city on the Mediterranean coast called Joppa, which is known today as Jaffa, a part of modern day Tel Aviv, in Israel. 

The glorious story of Tabitha took place between A.D. 37-43. She was widely known for her big heart of unwavering kindness and charity, particularly her selfless acts to the poor and the widows in Joppa. Tabitha was skilled in making garments like tunics and robes for the poor in her town and because of her story, her name Dorcas is often associated with compassion, generosity, and good works today. In fact, many charitable organizations within communities have been named in her honor. Although the account of Tabitha's life is brief, it is filled with profound lessons that could inspire an entire book. 

Unfortunately, the narrative takes a tragic turn when she suddenly falls ill and, sorrowfully, passes away. Tabitha’s lifeless body was tenderly prepared and laid to rest n a quiet room upstairs Now, according to scripture, news passed swiftly through the air, reaching the ears of the apostles in Joppa that Apostle Peter was in the nearby town of Lydda. So quickly messengers were dispatched, imploring him to come without delay. 

Upon Peter's arrival, he was met with a heart wrenching scene of mourners, particularly widows, their faces etched with grief, as they held up the beautifully woven garments that Tabitha had lovingly crafted for each of them. Their sorrow hung in the air like a heavy shroud, a poignant testament to the life and kindness of the woman they had lost. So, Peter, moved by their despair, gently urged the mourners to leave the room, creating a space for something extraordinary to happen. Peter knelt down by her side, the weight of the moment palpable. 

With unwavering faith, he prayed fervently and then, in a voice that rang with divine authority, he called out, “Tabitha, get up.” In that instant, the atmosphere changed, there was a shifted in the realms. A miracle was birthed, the power of God was made manifest! Tabitha’s eyes fluttered open, and as they recognized Peter’s gaze, she instinctively sat up, an astonishing was reborn. Tabitha was brought back to life! and that is what God, the giver of life can do.


God is able to restore you as well. He did it for Tabitha, He did it for Lazarus, He can do it for you as well. Reflect on what you have done or given to your fellow beings, family, neighbors, community, or town without expecting anything in return, not even tax deductions. I recall how some ladies made masks for friends, hospitals, food banks, and libraries during Covid-19. These beautiful gestures should not end there; we should engage in such acts of kindness more frequently, not just in times of distress. God calls upon us all—not just ladies—to extend a helping hand to one another. Tabitha gracefully sowed seeds of kindness into the lives of others, and in return, she reaped a greater reward—the restoration of her soul. She was brought back to life, filled with renewed strength, more anointing, abundant grace, and the joy, Tabitha was equipped with everything she needs to carry on her important work that has always endured.


You never know the profound impact that the genuine seeds you plant in others' lives can bring into your own. Yes its a well known cliché but it is true, most especially when you least expect the return. as the old saying goes “one good turn deserves another” Make it a duty this year to help others in any way you can, the God who sees, knows and hears will richly reward you “....He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us”. Ephesians 3:20.


STAY INSPIRED BE A TABITHA BEAR ONE ANOTHER UP

By Sandra Deladem

Culled from Encounter the Glory Magazine May-June 2025 edition