Support From the Family

A warm, loving family,if there is one, can do much to reassure a widow that she will be able to cope.  Although some family members may be able to offer more help  than others, all can contribute.  "If any widow has children or grandchildren, let these learn first to practice godly devotion  in their own household and to keep paying a due compensation to their parents and grandparents, for this is acceptable in God's sight." -1 Timothy 5:4.

In many cases, financial support or "compensation" may be unnecessary.  Some widows have sufficient funds to care for their needs, and others qualify for state benefits, which are available in some lands.  But where widows are in need, family members ought  to help.  If a widow has no close relatives to offer support or such relatives are unable to help, the Scriptures encourage fellow believers to come to her aid:   "The form of worship that is clean and undefiled from the standpoint of our God and Father is this:  to look after orphans and widows in their tribulation." -James 1:27.

Those who act on these Bible principles truly "honor widows."  (1 Timothy 5:3)  To honor a person means, in effect, to demonstrate respect for that one.  People who are shown honor feel valued, cherished, dignified.  They do not feel  that others are helping purely out of a sense of duty.  Ruth, although herself a widow for awhile, truly honored Naomi by willingly and lovingly made sure that Naomi's physical and emotional needs were cared for. In fact, Ruth's attitude quickly  earned her a fine reputation, so that her future husband said to her:  "Everyone in  the city of my people is aware that you are an excellent  woman."  (Ruth 3:11) At the same time, Naomi's love for God, her undemanding nature, and her deep appreciation  for Ruth's efforts in her behalf no doubt made it a pleasure for Ruth to assist her.  What a fine example Naomi is to widows today!

Next time: Draw Close to God

The Watchtower, 2001