Throughout Scripture, one theme stands out over and over: God’s deep concern for the vulnerable. The Bible calls His people to be a voice and a helping hand for those in need—especially widows and orphans.
These two groups often represent those with no support, no protection, and no means of defending themselves. And God makes it very clear: He sees them, loves them, and calls His followers to care for them.
In this blog post, we’ll explore 15 powerful care for the widows and orphans Bible verses that reveal God’s heart and provide clear direction for how we can live out this calling in our daily lives.
Why This Matters
- Widows and orphans often represent the most vulnerable in society.
- God repeatedly commands His people to care for them.
- These verses challenge us to reflect God’s compassion in action, not just words.
15 Bible Verses About Caring for Widows and Orphans
Each verse below is presented in a quote block format with a short explanation to help you understand the context and significance. These verses go beyond obligation—they invite us into a lifestyle of love, mercy, and justice.
1. James 1:27
Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction…
Explanation:
James reminds believers that true faith is seen in how we care for those who are hurting and forgotten. It’s not about ritual—it’s about compassion in action.
2. Psalm 68:5
Father of the fatherless and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation.
Explanation:
This verse gives us a picture of God’s character. He is not distant—He personally steps in to defend and care for the vulnerable.
3. Isaiah 1:17
Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.
Explanation:
Caring for widows and orphans is part of doing justice. God calls us to actively engage in defending their rights.
4. Exodus 22:22
You shall not mistreat any widow or fatherless child.
Explanation:
This commandment is simple and direct. Mistreating the vulnerable brings judgment; protecting them brings blessing.
5. Deuteronomy 10:18
He executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing.
Explanation:
God’s love is practical. He not only loves the vulnerable—He provides for them and calls us to do the same.
6. Deuteronomy 24:19
When you reap your harvest… you shall not go back to get it; it shall be for the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow…
Explanation:
This verse encourages generosity. God built care for the poor into the harvest laws so that widows and orphans would not go hungry.
7. Proverbs 15:25
The Lord tears down the house of the proud but maintains the widow’s boundaries.
Explanation:
God protects the rights and possessions of widows, showing that He values their dignity and well-being.
8. Job 29:12
Because I delivered the poor who cried for help, and the fatherless who had none to help him.
Explanation:
Job reflects on his own life and righteousness, pointing to his care for the fatherless as evidence of godly living.
9. Jeremiah 22:3
Do justice and righteousness… do no wrong or violence to the resident alien, the fatherless, and the widow…
Explanation:
God commands leaders and people alike to protect the vulnerable and avoid exploitation or neglect.
10. Zechariah 7:10
Do not oppress the widow, the fatherless, the sojourner, or the poor…
Explanation:
This verse echoes God’s long-standing command to avoid injustice and instead show mercy and care for the overlooked.
11. Psalm 146:9
The Lord watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless…
Explanation:
God isn’t passive—He’s active in lifting up and protecting the ones society often forgets.
12. 1 Timothy 5:3
Honor widows who are truly widows.
Explanation:
Paul instructs the church to provide for widows who have no family support, emphasizing the church’s role in caring for them.
13. Ruth 2:10
Then she fell on her face… “Why have I found favor in your eyes…?”
(Boaz cared for Ruth, a widowed foreigner.)
Explanation:
Though not a direct command, Ruth’s story illustrates God’s kindness through people. Boaz’s generosity to Ruth shows what care in action looks like.
14. Deuteronomy 14:29
…the Levite, the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow… shall come and eat and be filled…
Explanation:
Tithes were used not just for worship but also for feeding the needy, showing that God’s provision includes social care.
15. Lamentations 5:3
We have become orphans, fatherless; our mothers are like widows.
Explanation:
This verse expresses sorrow and highlights how devastating national hardship can be for families. It’s a cry for God’s mercy and help.
Final Thoughts
These care for the widows and orphans Bible verses don’t just describe God’s heart—they invite us to live it out. Whether through acts of service, financial support, mentorship, or simply presence, we are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus to those who need it most.
God’s love for the forgotten is unwavering—and when we reflect that love, we reflect Him.
Share With Us
Do you have a favorite Bible verse about caring for widows and orphans? Have you experienced or witnessed God’s care in action through someone’s kindness or provision?
Share your story or scripture in the comments—we’d love to be encouraged by your journey and insight.