Sep 24. 1 Timothy 5. Jean Walker

It Cannot Be Hidden

This chapter gives specific instructions to Timothy as a ministry leader regarding care of widows, elders, different genders and even himself as a leader.  Paul strongly charges Timothy to be careful not to show partiality and favoritism with the instructions given to him regarding these things.

It does not surprise me that Paul wants to make sure that the various needs and situations of widows are addressed. A widow without care could easily be harmed by the world or left without a way to survive. Everyone in the church is valuable and should be treated with special honor (I Cor. 12:23). 

 I love that God highlights widows throughout the Bible. I am reminded of the great example of such women as the widow of Zarephath, Abigail, Anna, the widow with the two copper mites, Ruth and Naomi, and Tabitha. I love the example of Jesus who shows compassion directly to the widow of Nain and his own mother Mary at the foot of the cross. There are many scriptures and commands that are specific about taking care of widows besides this chapter such as Deut 14:28-29 where it is commanded to set aside a special collection for widows, and Acts 6:1-6 where there was a special task force dedicated for caring for them. God himself is described in Psalm 65:5 as a “defender of widows”. 

Apparently, there was an official “list of widows” which included women over sixty that had been faithful, and were well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the saints, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds.  It reminds me of our SAGE women here in Hampton Roads. Their service has honored and built up the church and calls us all higher which is God’s intentions.  

There were also instructions for younger widows and their needs.  Paul alludes to their devotion to Christ as a single woman but recognizes their vulnerability and needs. The devotion and spirit of the single mothers and mature single women among us are such a great influence.  It is invaluable to the spiritual strength of the church. We need them and they need us.

As a leader in God’s church, I realize that it is easy to overlook those that are silent in the church.  So, I ask myself who is in need, alone, weak, in distress, and overlooked? Do they need a listening ear, a hug, a meal, or to be recognized? Even the littlest voices need someone to speak up for them.

These women are mighty in God’s kingdom throughout history and in our church today.  Their faith and good deeds cannot be hidden!

James 1:27 says, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress…”

I Timothy 5:25 “In the same way, good deeds are obvious, and even those that are not cannot be hidden.”