Remember the Widows

God has told us to remember the widows (and orphans). Do we?

We’re wrong to assume all widows have their material needs met through Social Security, life insurance or pension benefits. Women are blessed if those funds are readily available; yet, many deal with financial issues while grieving the loss of their spouse. Housewives that haven’t had careers in the marketplace are thrust into job searching.

What can we do to lighten their load?

Friendship and prayer support mean more than we realize. Our love and encouragement provide strength in times of sadness and despair. We don’t offer instant solutions. Companionship is far greater than advise and conversation; we can develop the gifts of attentive listening and hand holding.

Remember the widows…

“Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress (James 1:27a NASB).”

Are you a widow? Fear not. God has not forsaken you.

“Fear not, for you will not be put to shame;
And do not feel humiliated, for you will not be disgraced;
But you will forget the shame of your youth,
And no longer remember the disgrace of your widowhood.
For your husband is your Maker,
Whose name is the Lord of armies;
And your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel,
Who is called the God of all the earth (Isaiah 54:4-5 NASB).”