Today's daily devotion

She Gave, and He Gave Back

Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.—ACTS 9:39 KJV

Dorcas had spent her life as a servant. She was a follower of Christ who was “full of good works and almsdeeds” (Acts 9:36 KJV) that she did continually. Scripture does not itemize her works, but we do know that she sewed coats and garments and took care of many widows.

She was the type of woman who could have “worked herself to death.” People like Dorcas are often so busy caring for others that they fail to care about themselves. Of course, we can’t say that for sure about Dorcas.

But we definitely know that when she died, many people grieved. And when they heard that the apostle Peter was nearby, they asked him to come—apparently believing he could raise the dead.

That’s exactly what Peter did. Through his prayer, he raised Dorcas and returned her to service. Dorcas had given her life to serve God, and God had given it back.

“For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it” (Matthew 16:25 KJV).

When you give your life to serve others, you are honoring God—and finding life.

Lord Jesus, I don’t understand why You would give Your life for me. There is nothing greater that I can do on Earth than to give my life for You in service to others. Please strengthen me for this joyful task.

Adapted from

Share this story