Filter by Categories

The Widow and the Fatherless (Part Four)

CGG Weekly by Mike Ford

Caring for the fatherless, along with widows and strangers, is a vital expression of pure religion before God. We must keep our eyes open to the day-to-day difficulties faced by single mothers and their children, who may be struggling financially or otherwise. Are the single mom and her kids always running close to the edge? Can we include them in our dinner or outing plans at the Feast of Tabernacles? Prayer is a powerful tool; we can compile a personal list of people to pray for, bringing their problems before God to seek His help, guidance, and relief. Encouragement through a call, note, or small monetary gift, if feasible and legitimate, can show we are aware of their needs and available to help. Physically helping, such as assisting with moves or daily tasks, is also crucial, as seen in past efforts to support single mothers in changing homes or apartments. Being alert to ongoing challenges, even after initial crises pass, ensures we continue to support the fatherless in their lingering needs. Opportunities to serve are abundant if we choose not to ignore them, reflecting our duty to live godly lives and care for those in need as God desires.

The Widow and the Fatherless (Part Two)

CGG Weekly by Mike Ford

Our God has called and chosen us to serve Him and others with humility, being especially sensitive to the needs of those who are socially and economically limited, such as widows and the fatherless. We are to provide help when we see a genuine need among them, as they are often the weakest among us and in most cases unable to work. God sets the example, as David writes in Psalm 68:5, that He is a father to the fatherless and a defender of widows in His holy habitation. God Himself declares in Jeremiah 49:11 to leave the fatherless children to Him for preservation and to let widows trust in Him, showing His care for their rights and welfare. In Jeremiah 7:1-11, God speaks through His prophet, commanding the people of Judah to change their ways and stop taking advantage of orphans and widows, promising safety and a long life in their land if they reform. God's ordering of priorities places the care of widows and the fatherless near the top of the list of actions needed to return to a proper relationship with Him, emphasizing the importance of protecting and looking out for the weak among us.

The Widow and the Fatherless

Sermon by Mike Ford

Pure religion, according to James, takes care of vulnerable people — the widows, fatherless, and strangers. This echoes the words of the prophets.

The Widow and the Fatherless (Part Three)

CGG Weekly by Mike Ford

God fills the first 15 verses of Isaiah 1 with a laundry list of sins, but He provides only two direct, uncomplicated verses on how to correct the problems.