A stitch in time saves nine

“A time to tear and a time to mend,” Ecclesiastes 3:7a

A stitch in time saves nine is an old proverbial phrase meaning to resolve an issue in a timely manner to avoid more work later. This alludes to repairing a garment with a small tear rather than waiting until it becomes larger.

I really enjoy sewing. My aunt taught me the basics but it was my friend in Cheraw that really sat down with me and explained the concept of interpreting a pattern. When our first daughter was around four, I got the brainy idea I would make matching mother/daughter dresses for Easter. They actually turned out amazing but we looked a little like we belonged on a prairie somewhere.

I think God has blessed us all with unique talents and we can use those gifts to help others. That was the case of a woman in the Bible named Tabitha. She’s only mentioned briefly, but she made a difference in the lives of others in her community by helping the poor. In Acts 9:36-42, we learn Tabitha became ill and died so the believers asked Peter to come.

When he got there, the room was packed with widows wearing the clothes she had made for them. Even though she was already prepared for burial he asked everyone to leave the room. He knelt beside her, prayed, and then said, “Get up, Tabitha.”(Acts 9:40b) Immediately she opened her eyes and many people were saved because they heard of this great miracle.

God used a woman with a servant's heart to illustrate what it looks like to replicate Christ. She made such a powerful difference in the lives of others, she was featured in a story in the Bible. Regardless of the talent or gifts we have received, we have a responsibility to use those abilities to help others in need when the opportunity presents itself. I think a stitch in time really does save nine because if we’re able to help someone early in their struggle perhaps greater trouble will be avoided. There’s an old saying, “It’s better to give than receive” because we’ll feel as blessed as the ones we are blessing.