Traits Of A Godly Woman

Yesterday morning, I preached about a great Christian woman in the Bible, named Tabitha (Dorcas) from Acts 9:36-43. Interestingly, her name translated in its original language, actually means "female gazelle," which is an antelope-like animal that is well-known for its beauty. Even the term for "Joppa," the city where Tabitha was from, means beauty. I get the idea that the Holy Spirit wants us to gain something from this text about beauty. The text indeed reveals to us some beautiful things about this woman. Hopefully this can be a lesson for all of us, whether a woman, man, child, parent, employee, employer, etc.

"Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means Dorcas. She was full of good works and acts of charity. In those days she became ill and died, and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him, urging him, 'Please come to us without delay.' So Peter rose and went with them. And when he arrived, they took him to the upper room. All the widows stood beside him weeping and showing tunics and other garments that Dorcas made while she was with them. But Peter put them all outside, and knelt down and prayed; and turning to the body he said, 'Tabitha, arise.' And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. And he gave her his hand and raised her up. Then calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive. And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. And he stayed in Joppa for many days with one Simon, a tanner" (Acts 9:36-43).

Here are a few traits for which we can all strive as people seeking to belong to God:

• HER SACRIFICE: We are told that she was full of good works and acts of charity. The term for "acts of charity" here is translated as "almsgiving" in the KJV. The meaning of this word in its original language means merciful in giving or pity; thus signifying the giving of oneself to another who is less fortunate. Undoubtedly, Jesus taught us to be this way and described life in the kingdom as possessing this selfless quality.
• HER REPUTATION: A few things here speak volumes about what others thought of her: (1) the fact that they were seemingly so desperate to get her back. The pleaded with Peter to hurry. Have you ever known someone that you just couldn't bear the thought of losing? Apparently this was the impact Tabitha had on these folks. (2) That Peter complied with this urgent request is a great testament to her also. And (3) The scene of the widows crying and holding these items Tabitha had made while she was with them. I think this also says a lot about how she was likely very influential in the lives of these other women.
• HER RESILIENCE: Peter performs one of the greatest miracles recorded in the Bible here. Tabitha's submission and desire to obey is seen even in her death and resurrection. Obviously something like this does not happen today but the lesson here is that her reputation and sacrificial service to others is what allowed her to be resilient and overcome death. Likewise our service to others and ultimately God, is what allows us to overcome sin and spiritual death. Is our life a resurrected one? Does our life demonstrate walking with Jesus? Tabitha's did.
• HER INFLUENCE: Tabitha was an icon. Her life was a reflection of what Jesus came to do (Luke 19:10). We can hardly deny the strength of her influence. The reaction of the people to her death tells us all we need to know. But what is especially revealing is that we are told in this text that as a result of all that transpired here, people believed. Can we say that our sacrifices and love for others culminate in others coming to Christ?

Thank God for texts in the Bible such as this that gives us a sense of application for all that Jesus said that He wants from us. May there be more Tabithas in the world. And may it begin with those of us who claim followership to our precious Savior.

Have a great day!