Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need.(A) But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents,(B) for this is pleasing to God.(C) The widow who is really in need(D) and left all alone puts her hope in God(E) and continues night and day to pray(F) and to ask God for help. But the widow who lives for pleasure is dead even while she lives.(G) Give the people these instructions,(H) so that no one may be open to blame. Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied(I) the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

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Honor widows who are actually (A)widows; but if any widow has children or grandchildren, (B)they must first learn to show proper respect for their own family and to give back compensation to their parents; for this is (C)acceptable in the sight of God. Now she who is actually a (D)widow and has been left alone (E)has set her hope on God, and she continues in (F)requests and prayers night and day. But she who (G)indulges herself in luxury is (H)dead, even while she lives. [a](I)Give these instructions as well, so that they may be above reproach. But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has (J)denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Timothy 5:7 Or Keep commanding