Widows have always held a special place in God’s heart.
Throughout the Bible, God makes it clear that caring for widows is not just an act of kindness but a command.
In a time when widows were among the most vulnerable members of society, God called His people to provide for them, defend them, and ensure they were not forgotten.
But does this command still apply today?
How should believers respond to widows in their families, churches, and communities?
Let’s take a deep look at what the Bible says about taking care of widows and why it matters to God.
God’s Heart for Widows
The Bible repeatedly shows that God has deep compassion for widows.
He is not distant from their struggles—He actively cares for them and commands His people to do the same.
Psalm 68:5 describes God as:
A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy dwelling.
God does not ignore the pain of those who have lost their spouses.
He steps in as their protector and provider.
Deuteronomy 10:18 also says:
He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing.
This verse shows that God not only defends widows but also meets their needs.
His love for them is evident throughout Scripture.
Old Testament Commands About Widows
In the Old Testament, God gave specific laws to ensure widows were not neglected.
Because widows in ancient times often had no financial support or legal rights, they were at great risk of poverty and mistreatment.
God’s laws protected them and ensured they were cared for.
Providing for Widows
One of the clearest commands is found in Deuteronomy 14:28-29:
At the end of every three years, bring all the tithes of that year’s produce and store it in your towns, so that the Levites (who have no allotment or inheritance of their own) and the foreigners, the fatherless and the widows who live in your towns may come and eat and be satisfied, and so that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands.
This law required the Israelites to set aside resources to provide for widows.
God expected His people to make sure widows had enough to eat and live comfortably.
Justice for Widows
God also warned against mistreating widows.
Exodus 22:22-24 gives a strong warning:
Do not take advantage of the widow or the fatherless.
If you do and they cry out to me, I will certainly hear their cry.
My anger will be aroused, and I will kill you with the sword; your wives will become widows and your children fatherless.
This passage shows that God takes the suffering of widows very seriously.
He does not tolerate their oppression or neglect.
The Story of Ruth: A Widow’s Redemption
One of the most touching stories about a widow in the Bible is the story of Ruth.
Ruth was a young widow from Moab who chose to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi, after both of their husbands died.
Naomi was also a widow, and both women faced hardship and uncertainty.
But God provided for them through a man named Boaz, who showed kindness and generosity.
Ruth 2:12 records Boaz’s blessing to Ruth:
May the Lord repay you for what you have done.
May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.
Boaz later married Ruth, redeeming her from a life of poverty.
This story highlights how God cares for widows by working through the kindness and generosity of others.
New Testament Teachings on Caring for Widows
The New Testament continues to emphasize the importance of taking care of widows.
Jesus and the apostles made it clear that caring for widows is an essential part of Christian life.
Jesus’ Compassion for Widows
Jesus showed deep compassion for widows during His ministry.
One of the most powerful examples is found in Luke 7:12-15:
As He approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out—the only son of his mother, and she was a widow.
And a large crowd from the town was with her.
When the Lord saw her, His heart went out to her and He said, “Don’t cry.”
Then He went up and touched the bier they were carrying him on, and the bearers stood still.
He said, “Young man, I say to you, get up!”
The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother.
This passage shows that Jesus was deeply moved by the suffering of a widow.
He did not ignore her pain—He stepped in to bring hope and restoration.
The Early Church and Widows
The early church also took caring for widows very seriously.
Acts 6:1 describes a situation where widows in the church were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food.
To address this issue, the apostles appointed men to oversee the fair distribution of resources.
This shows that taking care of widows was a priority for the church.
1 Timothy 5:3-4 reinforces this responsibility:
Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need.
But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God.
Paul teaches that families have the first responsibility to care for widows, ensuring that they are not left alone in their time of need.
True Religion Includes Caring for Widows
One of the most direct verses about widows is found in James 1:27:
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
James makes it clear that true faith is not just about belief—it is about action.
Caring for widows is part of living out God’s love.
How Christians Can Care for Widows Today
The Bible’s teachings on widows are just as relevant today as they were in biblical times.
Widows still face challenges, loneliness, and financial struggles.
Christians have a responsibility to step in and show God’s love.
Support Them Emotionally
Widows often struggle with loneliness after losing their spouse.
Regular visits, phone calls, and words of encouragement can make a huge difference.
Romans 12:15 says:
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
Sometimes, the best way to care for a widow is simply to be there for her.
Provide Practical Help
Many widows need practical assistance, such as help with household tasks, transportation, or financial support.
Galatians 6:2 reminds us:
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Offering help with grocery shopping, home repairs, or financial planning can be a great way to show love and care.
Include Them in Church and Community
Widows should never feel forgotten in the church.
Including them in activities, inviting them to gatherings, and encouraging them to participate in ministries helps them stay connected.
Psalm 68:6 says:
God sets the lonely in families.
The church should be a family for widows, providing them with love and belonging.
Pray for Them
One of the most powerful ways to support widows is through prayer.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 encourages believers to:
Pray continually.
Lifting widows up in prayer, asking God to comfort, strengthen, and provide for them, is an important part of caring for them.
Final Thoughts
The Bible makes it clear—taking care of widows is a priority in God’s eyes.
From the Old Testament laws to Jesus’ compassion to the early church’s actions, Scripture shows that widows should be treated with kindness, dignity, and love.
Caring for widows is not just a good deed—it is an act of worship and obedience to God.
Whether through emotional support, practical help, inclusion in the church, or prayer, believers are called to step up and care for widows in their communities.
God sees every act of love toward a widow, and He blesses those who take on this responsibility with a willing heart.
So, if there is a widow in your life, consider how you can show her God’s love today.