Faithful service, compassionate hearts, and lives transformed by Christ.
NOT a Proverbs 31 Woman
Faithfulness, Testimony, and Serving Others
Scripture: Acts 9:36–43; Psalm 66:1–7
Sermon Date: May 10, 2026
Preacher: Rev. Vicki Cater
This Mother’s Day message invited us to look beyond the pressure of perfection often connected with Proverbs 31 and instead look at Tabitha, also called Dorcas, in Acts 9.
Tabitha was not remembered because she was perfect. She was remembered because she was faithful. Her compassion, service, and love for others became a testimony of her faith in Jesus Christ.
Through her story, we are reminded that Christian living is not about measuring up to impossible expectations. It is about using the gifts God has given us to serve others, share our testimony, and reflect Christ in everyday life.
Scripture References
Psalm 66:1–7
1 Peter 4:10
Faithful service matters.
Ground in Scripture
Acts introduces Tabitha, also called Dorcas, as a disciple. Scripture says she was “abounding with deeds of kindness and charity which she continually did” (Acts 9:36, NASB).
Her name means beautiful, but Rev. Vicki reminded us that this beauty was not about outward appearance. It was about character. Tabitha’s beauty was seen in compassion, kindness, generosity, and faithful service.
When Tabitha died, the believers mourned. The widows showed Peter the clothing she had made. Her ministry had left visible evidence behind.
Her faith had touched real people.
Psalm 66 calls God’s people to tell what God has done:
“Come and see the works of God.”
Psalm 66:5, NASB
Reasons We Believe
God uses ordinary people who faithfully serve others.
Tabitha was not famous. She was faithful. She served Jesus by serving people in need. Her good works were not done for attention, but they became a testimony that pointed others toward Christ.
Rev. Vicki reminded us that personal stories matter. Like the stories shared during Walk to Emmaus weekends, testimonies help people remember how God works in real lives.
We all have a testimony.
We all have gifts to share.
Obedience in Action
1 Peter 4:10 reminds us:
“As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the multifaceted grace of God.”
1 Peter 4:10, NASB
Many people say, “I can’t.”
“I don’t have a gift.”
“I’m not enough.”
But God gives every believer something to offer.
This week, ask a trusted friend what gift they see in you. Then look for one way to use that gift to serve someone else.
You might:
encourage someone who is lonely
help meet a practical need
write a note or make a phone call
serve in a church ministry
share part of your testimony
pray with someone who is hurting
Walk It Out
Ask yourself:
What part of Tabitha’s story speaks to me most?
Do I sometimes compare myself to impossible expectations?
What gifts has God placed in my life?
What gifts do others see in me?
How can I serve Jesus by serving someone else this week?
TRUTH – REASON – CHANGE
Truth:
God uses ordinary people who faithfully serve others.
Reason:
Tabitha’s compassion, kindness, and testimony pointed others toward Jesus and helped shape the life of the church.
Change:
Use your gifts, testimony, and compassion to bless others and reflect the love of Christ in everyday life.
Faithfulness is not about perfection.
Many people feel they do not measure up, but Tabitha reminds us that a faithful life is built through compassion, service, and love.
The Holy Spirit still works through ordinary people today.
Worship Table Reflection
The Communion Table on this Sunday included white paraments, flowers, crosses, and newly embroidered communion linens.
These visual details reflected the message beautifully. Just as Tabitha’s quiet work became part of the church’s witness, faithful acts of service still help prepare the church for worship today.
The embroidered linens remind us that even quiet, behind-the-scenes gifts can become part of worship.
Small acts of love matter.
The gifts of the church family matter.
Living the Message
Tabitha’s story teaches us that Christian living happens in real places with real people.
It happens when we care for widows, neighbors, children, families, church members, and those in need.
It happens when we move beyond simply helping people to truly caring for people.
It happens when our faith becomes visible through compassion.
At Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church, we continue learning how to be a Beacon of Light in Pleasant Grove, western Birmingham, and Jefferson County by serving others with the love of Christ.
Closing Reflection
Tabitha was not remembered for being perfect.
She was remembered because she loved well.
She served faithfully.
She cared deeply.
She used what she had.
She lived her faith in her community.
And through her story, many believed.
The same Holy Spirit still works through the Church today.
Your story matters.
Your gifts matter.
Your service matters.
Your testimony matters.
Prayer
Christian Living
Stories of Faith
Walk to Emmaus at Pleasant Grove UMC
Worship
Worship Resources
Prayer & Encouragement
Service & Outreach
Sermons & Media
Closing Invitation
Learn more about Christian discipleship and spiritual growth through worship, study, prayer, service, and daily faith.
Come and see how God continues to shape lives through faith, community, worship, and everyday discipleship at Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church.
