“Now in Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha, (which translated into Greek means Dorcas). She was rich in acts of kindness and charity which she continually did.” – Acts 9:36 (AMP)

Giving is a core part of the life of any wholesome disciple of Christ. There are lots of debates as to whether giving tithe is a command for the New Testament believer or it has ended with the Old Testament saints. No matter where you stand in this argument, one truth must stand out for you, God doesn’t just own your ten percent, He owns everything you have and you must be willing to cheerfully give to Him through men all that He has given you to steward.

There once lived a disciple in Joppa, named Tabitha, which also means Dorcas. What did the Bible record of her? She was rich in acts of kindness and charity. It takes a person who has understanding to live in this kind of way. Being rich in kindness and charity didn’t mean she had all the resources in the world. No, it just meant that she had the heart to give even the little she had for the happiness and comfortability of others.

Then, tragedy struck. She died. But the disciples refused to bury her at the time, rather they sent for Apostle Peter, not to conduct burial service but to wake her by the power of Christ. And when Peter came, the widows brought the various tunics and garments she had made for them for free and this must have ignited a lot of compassion too. This woman died but practically, the tears and cries of the widows she helped made it glaring that her departure would be a great loss at the time.

Tabitha didn’t live for herself but she lived for God by being kind and generous towards others. You cannot be a Christian and be stingy and unkind towards people. Your neighbors do not have to be believers like you before you show them kindness or give to them. Your kindness to unbelievers can be a tool for their conversion. Be a cheerful giver. Give joyfully, without murmuring or complaining. Let others live through you too. Don’t love for yourself alone.

Reflections: How often do I give cheerfully? Am I truly generous or I am just transactional in my giving? What will people say of my hospitality and kindness when I am no more here?

Confession: I am saved and blessed to be a blessing to others. I live my life with a generous heart. People become blessed through me and I give of my resources to others for their comfort and prosperity. My heart is full of compassion towards the needs of others.

Related Scripture: Acts 9:36-42

Bible Reading: John 13