30 verses about widows in the bible (Full Commentary)

Pastor David

bible study for you

Today we will talk about verses about widows in the Bible. Many Christians may not fully understand the significance of these verses, but they are rich with meaning and lessons about compassion, love, and community. The Bible encourages us to care for those who are vulnerable, including widows, who often experience grief and isolation. As we delve into these scriptures, let’s open our hearts and minds to gain a deeper understanding of God’s heart for these individuals and how we, as a community of believers, can better support and uplift them. Let’s embrace the wisdom that comes from these verses and let them influence our actions and attitudes towards widows in our own lives.

Bible Verses About Widows

God’s Care for Widows

In Scripture, we often find that God has a special place in His heart for widows. These verses remind us that He sees their pain and provides for their needs. We are not just passive spectators in the lives of those who have lost their partners; instead, we are called to be His hands and feet to show care and compassion. The Bible teaches us that we are to be champions for their cause, ensuring they feel valued and loved, reflecting God’s love through our actions. Let’s explore these important reminders of His unwavering commitment to care for those in need.

Psalm 146:9

“The Lord watches over the foreigner and sustains the fatherless and the widow, but he frustrates the ways of the wicked.” – Psalm 146:9

Deuteronomy 10:18

“He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing.” – Deuteronomy 10:18

Isaiah 1:17

“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” – Isaiah 1:17

Exodus 22:22

“Do not take advantage of the widow or the fatherless.” – Exodus 22:22

Jeremiah 22:3

“This is what the Lord says: Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do not enrich yourself by exploiting them.” – Jeremiah 22:3

The Call to Provide for Widows

We are called to care for widows, not just with our words but with our actions. The Bible signifies that caring for widows is part of our duty as Christians. It encourages us to actively look for ways to support them through practical help like providing meals, offering companionship, or even financial assistance when needed. This is not merely a suggestion; it’s an essential part of living out our faith. By doing so, we reflect Christ’s love, showing that no one is ever alone. Let’s remember that our support can make a world of difference in their lives.

1 Timothy 5:3

“Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need.” – 1 Timothy 5:3

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 1:27

Luke 18:7

“And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off?” – Luke 18:7

1 Corinthians 12:25

“That there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another.” – 1 Corinthians 12:25

Luke 20:47

“They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will be punished most severely.” – Luke 20:47

Jesus’ Example of Compassion Towards Widows

We see throughout the Gospels that Jesus taught us how to embody compassion, particularly in His interactions with widows. He didn’t shy away from their pain; instead, He approached them with love and sensitivity. These moments illustrate how we should also reach out to those who are struggling and offer our support and empathy. When we follow Jesus’ example, we can bring a profound sense of hope and healing to the hearts of widows, reminding them that they are not forgotten and that their lives still hold purpose and promise.

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 coffin, and those carrying it stood still. He said, ‘Young man, I say to you, get up!'” – Luke 7:12-15

Mark 12:42-44

“But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, ‘Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.'” – Mark 12:42-44

John 19:25

“Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.” – John 19:25

Matthew 15:21-28

“Leaving that place, Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. A Canaanite woman from that vicinity came to him, crying out, ‘Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me! My daughter is demon-possessed and suffering terribly.’” – Matthew 15:21-28

Luke 18:1-8

“Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.” – Luke 18:1-8

Encouragement for Widows

God often gives us words of encouragement specifically for widows. These verses remind us that grief and loneliness are part of their journey, but also that hope is not lost. The Lord is our comforter, and He walks alongside us in every trial we face. As members of the body of Christ, we can be a source of encouragement to widows, helping them find strength and solace in their faith. By sharing scripture and offering our support, we validate their feelings and help lighten their burdens. Let’s delve into the comforting words God has for those who grieve.

Psalm 68:5

“A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.” – Psalm 68:5

Isaiah 54:4

“Do not be afraid; you will not be put to shame. Do not fear disgrace; you will not be humiliated. You will forget the shame of your youth and remember no more the reproach of your widowhood.” – Isaiah 54:4

Psalm 147:3

“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles.” – 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Matthew 5:4

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” – Matthew 5:4

Community Support for Widows

The Bible calls us to build a supportive community for those who are hurting, such as widows. It is essential that we stand together and create an environment where they feel welcomed and accepted. Our church and personal communities can be a source of hope and healing for those in need. Let’s commit to be a part of a community that surrounds widows with love, understanding, and encouragement, just as the early Christians did. This reflection of our faith can foster a strong sense of belonging and purpose in their lives.

Acts 9:36

“In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor.” – Acts 9:36

Acts 6:1

“In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food.” – Acts 6:1

Galatians 6:2

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2

Hebrews 13:16

“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” – Hebrews 13:16

Colossians 3:12

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” – Colossians 3:12

God’s Promise of Justice for Widows

God assures us that He will be their advocate and deliverer. He promises to bring justice to those who have been wronged, affirming that no one can exploit or mistreat His beloved children without consequence. It is a comforting promise that lifts our spirits and provides hope for widows who seek fairness and restoration in their lives. As we learn about God’s promises, we can encourage widows to trust in His righteousness and seek His guidance as they navigate their paths to healing.

Proverbs 15:25

“The Lord tears down the house of the proud, but he sets the widow’s boundary stones in place.” – Proverbs 15:25

Zechariah 7:10

“Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor. Do not plot evil against each other.” – Zechariah 7:10

Psalm 82:3

“Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.” – Psalm 82:3

Proverbs 31:9

“Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” – Proverbs 31:9

Isaiah 10:2

“To deprive the poor of their rights and withhold justice from the oppressed of my people, making widows their prey and robbing the fatherless.” – Isaiah 10:2

Prayer for Widows

As we discuss the topic of widows, we are reminded of the transformative power of prayer. We can lift widows in our prayers, asking God for their healing, strength, and guidance. When we pray for them, we join in their journey, creating a bond of love and support that can uplift them through their hardships. Let us be faithful in our prayers, believing that God hears us and honors our intercession for those who are suffering. This is not just a duty but an act of love that strengthens our community in Christ.

1 Thessalonians 5:17

“Pray continually.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Philippians 4:6-7

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6-7

James 5:16

“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16

Matthew 18:19

“Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven.” – Matthew 18:19

Romans 12:12

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” – Romans 12:12

Hope and Restoration for Widows

As we conclude our reflection on the topic of widows, we are reminded that there is always hope and the promise of restoration in God’s plan. Life circumstances may bring pain and loss, but God is faithful and works all things for His glory. Widows can find new purpose and joy in their lives, understanding that their worth is not diminished by their loss. Let’s continue to proclaim this hope in our communities and encourage widows to embrace the future with optimism, knowing that God has beautiful plans for them ahead.

Revelation 21:4

“‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’” – Revelation 21:4

Jeremiah 29:11

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

Psalm 30:5

“For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” – Psalm 30:5

2 Timothy 1:7

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7

Isaiah 61:3

“And provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.” – Isaiah 61:3

Final Thoughts

As we reflect on the verses about widows in the Bible, we recognize the beauty and compassion woven throughout God’s message. He invites us to stand with those who are grieving, assuring them that they are not forgotten. We can be active participants in uplifting widows by providing support, encouragement, and care.

In our communities, we can foster an environment where everyone, especially widows, feels loved and valued. This journey of caring is not just a responsibility; it is a reflection of our faith and the love of Christ. Let’s remember that as we strive to live out these verses, we are making a real difference in the lives of others.

Let us commit to praying for widows and offering them hope through our words and actions. In following God’s command, we can help heal hearts and restore joy in the lives of those walking through difficult seasons. May our hearts continue to be open to His calling to love and support one another.

Further Reading

30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)

30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)

30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)

30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)

4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4

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