Authentically Adele

A Reflection on Acts 9: The Story of Tabitha

I was reading the end of Acts 9 and came across a powerful story about a woman named Tabitha, also known as Dorcas. She was a remarkable disciple — known for her kindness, generosity, and all the good she did for others. Tabitha was the kind of woman who was always giving, always helping, always doing something to bless someone else.

But then something happened — she became ill and sadly, she died. The other disciples gently washed her body and laid her in an upper room. But they didn’t stop there. They sent for Peter, asking him to come quickly and not delay.

When Peter arrived, he was met by a group of widows, crying and showing him the garments Tabitha had lovingly made for them. Their tears spoke volumes about the kind of person she was — someone who had made a real impact on their lives.

Peter then sent everyone out of the room. He knelt down and prayed. Then he turned to her and said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes. She sat up. Peter took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. Just like that, Tabitha came back to life.

This part of the story really hit me deeply. I believe God is speaking directly to someone who, like Tabitha, has given so much of themselves to others. You’ve been there for people time and time again — always giving, always loving, always thoughtful. You’ve poured yourself out for others, stood by them in their hardest moments, and made a difference in ways you might not even realise.

But now, something has happened to you. Maybe it’s a sickness. Maybe it’s emotional, mental, or spiritual exhaustion. Has life knocked you down so hard that you’ve stopped functioning in the way you used to? Do you no longer feel like the person you once were? Do you feel like you’ve been placed in the “upper room” — still, silent, and forgotten?

But hear this today: the Lord sees you. He’s heard every cry, He’s seen every sacrifice. And now, just as Peter knelt and prayed over Tabitha, I’m praying for you.

As you read this prayer, I hope that you hear God’s voice calling out to you and  feel His loving arms reaching out, lifting you up —

Heavenly Father,
I lift up the precious soul who sees themselves in Tabitha’s story. You see their pain. You know what they’re going through. You know what has tried to silence them, stop them, or take them out.

Lord, they’ve given so much of themselves to others — and now they need You. May You strengthen them from within and  breathe life into their soul  and revive them once again.

May You speak into the stillness. Heal what’s been broken. Restore what’s been lost. And as You did with Tabitha, Lord, cause them to rise — not just to survive, but to live fully and give You glory.

In the mighty name of Jesus Christ I pray,
Amen.