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The Widow and the Fatherless (Part Four)

CGG Weekly by Mike Ford

The care of strangers forms part of a broader biblical mandate rooted in James 1:27, which defines pure and undefiled religion as visiting orphans and widows in their trouble while remaining unspotted from the world. A personal example of giving money to a man seeking donations on a roadside raises the question of whether such charity truly fulfills this command, concluding that it does not necessarily do so, since the stranger's actual need remains unknown. This leads to an exploration of more tangible and meaningful ways to help the widow, the fatherless, and the stranger, with the understanding that these methods benefit anyone in need, though the focus remains on these specific groups. Several practical approaches are offered. Prayer is foundational, using resources like a church prayer request page to compile a personal list of people to pray for, bringing both great and small problems before God for help, guidance, and relief. Yet since daily struggles often go unspoken as formal prayer requests, believers must remain watchful—not prying, but attentive—to notice financial strain, loneliness, or other unspoken burdens, and to include such individuals in gatherings or outings. Encouragement through calls, notes, cards, or emails lets people know their needs are seen and that help is available, whether financial or simply a word of comfort; however, one must avoid shifting focus onto one's own past struggles, since every situation is unique and dwelling on personal experience can distract from the other person's actual need. Physical help is another vital avenue, illustrated by past efforts organizing volunteers to assist widows and single mothers with moving. Even without such organized structures, opportunities remain to serve neighbors and strangers outside the congregation—running errands, delivering meals, or performing tasks for those who are sick or unable to manage their homes. Even a simple visit can be a profound gift to someone who is lonely. Being alert is emphasized as essential, since personal troubles often blind believers to the ongoing pain of others long after a crisis—job loss, illness, or death—has passed from public attention. When helping those outside the faith, one may encounter questions about religious practice, such as why help is offered only on certain days; the purpose is not to proselytize, since calling and conversion belong to God, but simply to live godly lives as examples. Vigilance is also needed because opposition from Satan and his demons may attempt to disrupt these efforts. Paul's instructions in 1 Timothy 5:3-8 clarify that the responsibility for widows begins with their own families, who should care for them before the church or government intervenes; only when family support is lacking does the congregation bear this duty. This communal and personal responsibility toward widows, orphans, and strangers reflects the same divine principle taught by James, Moses, Isaiah, and Jeremiah: to obey God by looking out for one another, which constitutes pure religion.

The Widow and the Fatherless (Part Two)

CGG Weekly by Mike Ford

God, through Jeremiah, puts the care of the widows, fatherless, and strangers near the top of the list of things people need to do to reform their ways.

What Is Third Tithe (Deuteronomy 14:28-29)?

Bible Questions & Answers

In ancient Israel, God instructed His people to set aside a special tithe to assist those in need, such as orphans, widows, strangers, and Levites.

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 One)

CGG Weekly by Mike Ford

We can sum up the epistle of James with one verse: 'Pure and undefiled religion...is this: to visit orphans and widows..., and to keep oneself unspotted...."

Our Part in the Sanctification Process (Part Six): Cultivating Kindness

Sermon by David F. Maas

Because kindness is love in action, we must galvanize our thoughts into concrete behaviors, including offering encouraging words and performing uplifting deeds.

'But I Say to You' (Part Seven): Love Your Enemies

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Many scriptures direct us to show kindness to strangers and even our enemies who persecute us. With God's Spirit, we override the fight or flight response.

What is Acceptable to the Lord

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. Collins

While Jesus associated with harlots and publicans, He did not condone their works nor had fellowship with the works of darkness. We must follow His example.