Devotionals

Dorcas A Woman of Faith and Action

by Jennifer Woodley 
04/30/24
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 'Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means Dorcas. She was full of good works and acts of charity.' Acts 9:36 (ESV)

Dorcas had died and in the upper room of her home, the apostle Peter found himself before her body with many women weeping and showing him tunics and other garments that Dorcas had made.

Dorcas was a woman who understood that faith in Jesus was more than knowing about Him. She had, as James reminds us, a “pure and undefiled religion” (James 1:27), which puts faith in Christ in action. Not only was Dorcas a learner who engaged in the discipleship of the mind, but she was a woman who engaged in discipleship with her hands.

We receive the gospel with our hearts and minds, by faith alone, declaring us righteous in God's sight. But we must then display that faith to our neighbours, friends and family through loving service to them. Both our faith and our deeds are crucial to the Christian life. What good is it if we say we have faith in Jesus, but our actions do not align with our confession? Only a living faith in Jesus our Saviour produces good works. Dorcas left a legacy of benevolent works that reflected her deep love for Jesus. Are we doing the same?

Heavenly Father, I desire to reflect the love I have for you through acts of service. Please make me fruitful in ministry as Dorcas was. Guide me into the work that will glorify you and help me to be a good steward of the gifts you have given to me. Amen.