The widow who is really in need and left all alone puts her hope in God and continues night and day to pray and to ask God for help.
Summary: Paul is giving instructions to Timothy regarding a special case of giving — making a commitment to support someone for the rest of their life.
In this passage, Paul gives us three tests to be used in determining who is “really in need.” Remember, we are not talking about a one-time handout. A ‘widow in need’ needs help for the rest of her life. That is a big commitment and one worthy of caution before making it.
The first test is Paul’s definition of real need. In the case of a widow, if she has children or grandchildren, they need to step up and take care of her (1 Timothy 5:3-4). Someone who is truly in need has no children or grandchildren to look after them.
Notice that Paul does not say anything about liking the children or grandchildren. There is no expectation that they like the widow. This is not a question of liking someone. It is a question of being responsible.
The second test is in whom they place their hope. This is an interesting challenge, because it tends to disqualify those who come begging.
For example, if I come to you and ask for help, am I putting my hope in you or in God? The answer might be, “Both,” but Paul seems to emphasize a person’s dependence on God as a critical criterion.
The third test is whether or not the person in need has asked God for help. Why is this important? Well, it goes back to the second test: Who are you putting your hope in?
People who put their hope in God ask God directly for help. And then they keep asking (Luke 11:5-8).
So, after thinking about this, what picture comes to mind when you think of someone who needs help? Is it someone who has other options? Is it a person who is asking God for help “night and day”? Is it someone who is all alone?
Keep in mind who Paul is talking about. These are not people who have an urgent one-time need. They are not people who are hoping to get back on their feet soon. The widow who is truly in need is someone who will die without help. It is also important to remember that they are not looking for one-time help but help for the rest of their lives.
That is a big commitment, one that cries out for caution before promising to help.
Application: Have clear guidelines in place when handling the Lord’s money.
Food for Thought: What is the difference between secular support (government assistance) and church support?
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What is the difference between secular support (government assistance) and church support?
Church support is voluntary, given from the heart. Secular support is mandatory, taken by the laws of men.
Thank you, Ron!
That certainly must make a difference in how the gift feels when it is received.