SATURDAY May 3, 2025
The Legacy of a True Widow
Do not let a widow under sixty years old be taken into the number, and not unless she has been the wife of one man, well reported for good works: if she has brought up children, if she has lodged strangers, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has relieved the afflicted, if she has diligently followed every good work.
1 Timothy 5:9-10
Paul gave a descriptive list of the legacy of a true widow. She was a godly woman who had a reputation of good works, which included: being a faithful wife, bringing up her children, using her gift of hospitality to lodge strangers, ministering to the saints, and relieving the afflicted. Before her widowhood, she had this wonderful kind of legacy. It stood as a testament to her godly character. These qualifications were taken into consideration when the elders approved a widow to receive aid.
These qualities also remind us of the Proverbs 31 woman. Consider the similarities:
The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life... She extends her hand to the poor, yes, she reaches out her hands to the need... She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her... (Proverbs 31:11-12, 20, 27-28).
As a woman, what kind of testament do you have? Why not once more view the list of qualities in the life of the widow and that of the Proverbs 31 woman and ask yourself how they encourage you to improve? We all have areas in our lives where we could do better. Strive to leave behind a good legacy for those who will follow in your footsteps.
The greatest legacy one can pass on to one’s children and grandchildren is not money or other material things accumulated in one’s life, but rather a legacy of character and faith.
~Billy Graham~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
