Within our congregations, particular members hold a deeply special place in the body of Christ.. Among them are the widows, whom Scripture repeatedly affirms as deserving of high honor and care.

God’s Word shows us His immense regard for widows and commands us to follow His example in how we care and honor them. In both the Old and New Testament scripture, God makes it clear that the widow is ensured that care, honor, and justice are not overlooked.  Let us explore several Scriptures that highlight God’s view of widows, guiding how to extend special kindness, care, and respect to these beloved members of our church family.

Deuteronomy 10:17-18 (NKJV)
"For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality nor takes a bribe. He administers justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the stranger, giving him food and clothing."

In these verses, we see God’s great power and His impartial nature. He is the ultimate defender of those who may be vulnerable, such as the widow. The idea of God administering justice for the fatherless and widow appears throughout Scripture, affirming that He deeply cares for those who might not have an advocate.

Psalm 68:5-6 (NIV)
"Father to the fatherless, defender of widows—this is God, whose dwelling is holy. God places the lonely in families."

Here, God is described as the "defender of widows," a title that highlights His loving protection and concern. As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect this aspect of God's character in how we care for widows, ensuring they experience His love through our actions. 

Proverbs 15:25 (NIV)
"The Lord tears down the house of the proud, but He protects the property of widows."

This verse reinforces the idea that God actively protects and honors the widow. Just as God guards the widow’s interests, so should we ensure that she receives the respect, dignity, and support she needs in our church community.

The apostle Paul also echoes this sentiment in his letters to Timothy, urging the church to place special care and honor on widows, especially those who are truly in need.

1 Timothy 5:5-6 (NIV)
"Now she who is really a widow, and left alone, trusts in God and continues in supplications and prayers night and day."

Paul acknowledges the unique relationship widows have with God, trusting in Him for provision and strength, and continuing in prayer. It is a beautiful reminder of the deep faith that many widows possess, relying on God as their ultimate source of support. Their prayers are powerful and precious to God.

In fact, Scripture highlights a widow named Anna, who exemplified devotion and faithfulness through her life of prayer and fasting:

Luke 2:37-38 (NKKV)
"³⁷ this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. 38 And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.."

Anna’s unwavering commitment to prayer and worship is a testament to the spiritual strength of widows. In the same way, we appreciate the prayers of widows in our congregations—your faithfulness is a powerful example of devotion to God.

Jesus also emphasized the power of persistent prayer in the parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8). Through this, He shows us that our Heavenly Father listens to the prayers of those who continue steadfastly, even when faced with difficulty.

A Word of Gratitude

On behalf of our congregation, I want to express our deep gratitude for the widows who pray for others and faithfully serve God’s church. Your prayers to God and your example of faithfulness strengthen the body of Christ. 

We are also thankful for those who care for and support our widows, ensuring they are not overlooked but are valued and respected as the treasures they are.

May your Sabbath be filled with peace and encouragement