Widows hold a special place in God’s heart, and Scripture repeatedly warns against mistreating them. Throughout the Bible, God commands His people to care for and protect widows rather than exploiting their vulnerability. Those who take advantage of widows face God’s judgment, while those who defend and support them receive His blessing.
Here are five Bible verses that address taking advantage of widows:
1. Exodus 22:22-24 (ESV)
“You shall not mistreat any widow or fatherless child. If you do mistreat them, and they cry out to me, I will surely hear their cry, and my wrath will burn, and I will kill you with the sword, and your wives shall become widows and your children fatherless.”
God makes it clear that He defends widows and orphans. Those who exploit them will face severe consequences.
2. Isaiah 10:1-2 (NIV)
“Woe to those who make unjust laws, to those who issue oppressive decrees, to deprive the poor of their rights and withhold justice from the oppressed of my people, making widows their prey and robbing the fatherless.”
Leaders and authorities who take advantage of widows through corrupt systems bring judgment upon themselves. God expects justice for the vulnerable.
3. Mark 12:38-40 (NLT)
“Jesus also taught: ‘Beware of these teachers of religious law! For they like to parade around in flowing robes and receive respectful greetings in the marketplaces. And how they love the seats of honor in the synagogues and the head table at banquets. Yet they shamelessly cheat widows out of their property and then pretend to be pious by making long prayers in public. Because of this, they will be more severely punished.'”
Jesus condemned religious leaders who abused their authority to take from widows. Hypocrisy and greed bring severe judgment.
4. Deuteronomy 27:19 (NIV)
“Cursed is anyone who withholds justice from the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow. Then all the people shall say, ‘Amen!'”
God’s law demands justice for widows, and those who deny them fairness are under a curse.
5. James 1:27 (ESV)
“Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.”
True faith is demonstrated through caring for widows, not exploiting them. God values compassion and righteousness.
Final Thoughts
The Bible is clear—God fiercely defends widows and calls His people to do the same. Those who take advantage of them face His judgment, while those who protect and support them reflect His heart. If we want to live in obedience to God, we must treat widows with kindness, justice, and care.
