1 Timothy 5:3-16

One size does NOT fit all: Love the WIDOW well

1 Timothy 5:3 Honor widows who are truly widows.

1 Peter 4:9–11; Proverbs 12:18; James 2:15–17; 1 John 3:17–18

NEXT WEEK: 1 Timothy 5:17-25

Questions for the Community

Personal Reflection  

1. Make a list of the widows in your world. They may be in your family or church, your work or near your home…you may not know for sure if they are widows. 
2. Consider that God has a special spotlight on caring for widows. Look up the passages mentioned Sunday.

Group Discussion

3. What stood out most from church on Sunday?
4. Review the 4 kinds of widows and 3 groups that care for them. Did you learn anything new or have your assumptions challenged in some way?
5. What damage comes when ill-fitting help comes to those in need? Do you believe the State has replaced the Church in caring for widows? 
6. Do you have a part to play in caring for the vulnerable…particularly widows? Do you know what it is?

Plan of Action

7. What specific ways can you help a Christian in need? How are you rich? (knowledge, skill, temperament, vehicle, energy, tools)? Find the poor in these areas and meet needs. START in the church. 
8. Spend time in prayer on this. Take your list from question 1 and begin to pray for each by name. Act on what God stirs in you from your conversation with Him.