Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. –James 1:27 

Nothing is Too Small

Two men rushed through the street, trying to get a message to Peter. “Come quickly!” they said. Without hesitation, Peter rose and followed them to Joppa. Arriving at a house, he entered the upstairs room where several widows stood clutching garments, their faces filled with sorrow. “She made this for me,” one said to Peter. “And this one for me,” another said. Tabitha, the reason they were gathered, was dead. She’d been more than a seamstress; she was their friend. She gave her all to these widows whose lives most failed to see. 

Quickly, Peter asked everyone to leave the room. Kneeling beside her still body, he prayed. “Tabitha, get up.”

And she did. 

News Travels Fast

Tabitha opened her eyes, took Peter’s hand, and rose. News of her resurrection spread throughout the community, and many believed in the Lord.

But Tabitha’s impact didn’t begin with a miracle. It started with a needle and thread.

Tabitha’s story, found in Acts 9:36–42, is one of quiet, faithful ministry. Many women followed Jesus; however, Tabitha was the only woman the Bible explicitly calls a disciple. Of course, being raised from the dead is an amazing part of her testimony, but why did Tabitha’s life make such an impact on those around her? 

Who Was Tabitha?

Tabitha lived out her faith by following Jesus’ command to love others as He loved her. Using her skills, she served widows—some of the most vulnerable people of her time. With what was at her disposal, she became the hands and feet of Jesus to those in need. She expressed her faith through action. Rather than waiting for a larger platform or more noticeable calling, she faithfully did what she could right where she was. As a result, her kindness left such a profound impact that the entire community grieved her passing.

Ministry does not have to be on a large scale to impact people’s lives. Jesus tells us to feed the hungry, give drinks to the thirsty, clothe the naked, and care for the sick (Matthew 25:35–40). He says what we do to the least of His children, we also do to Him. While Tabitha’s actions seem small, the Lord regarded them as significant. In fact, they were so significant we still read about her life today!

What Can You Do?

What about you? What skills can you use to minister to those around you?

You don’t need a huge ministry to change lives, nor do you need a platform or a viral message. Ministry happens in the everyday moments—through the meals you cook, the words you speak, and the kindness you extend. Maybe it’s sewing burp cloths for single expectant mothers, serving meals at a homeless shelter, or helping a widow with home repairs. 

No act of love is too small, and no gift is insignificant in the hands of God. Tabitha didn’t just sew garments—she expressed the love of Christ with every stitch.

What does this mean for me?

Take a moment to reflect on the gifts God has given you. Is there something you enjoy doing you never considered using for the Lord? Ask the Holy Spirit to show you how to care for those in need—whether in your community, church, or neighborhood. Write down any ideas that come to mind, then pray for guidance on how to put them into action. This week, take a step of faith and use your gifts to serve others.

This article is part of the Let’s Go devotional, which is focused on fulfilling Jesus’ Great Commission. Follow along with the devotional here.