Mehˇchawˇma lehˬ, awˬ yaˇ maˇ heˆ kʼo awˬ hawehˍ cawˬ ve kʼo, yaˇ oˇ ve teˇ hpaˍ lehˬ a shu yawˇ yehˬ hkʼaw ve chaw teˇ hpaˍ hta‸ ha‸ shaˉ leh, awˬ pa awˬ e awˬ puˍ awˬ pi teˇ hpaˍ hta‸ awˬ bon kʼaw‸ te hkʼaw‸ piˇ ve teˇ ceuˬ lehˬ, Gʼuiˬsha hta‸ yawˆ yan ve awˬ liˇ awˬ hkʼaw lo awˉ lawˉ teˇ ceuˬ hpeh‸ ve yoˬ teh‸, yawˇ hui hta‸ maˍ piˇ-oˆ. Awˬ lawn kʼo, chi hkʼe ha‸ shaˉ piˇ ve teˇ ceuˬ hta‸ Gʼuiˬsha nyi ma cawˇ ve yoˬ.
What Does This Mean?
This verse says that if a widow has children or nephews, they should learn to show respect and care for their family members first, especially by taking care of their parents. This is good and pleases God.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have an aunt who doesn’t have anyone to look after her. The Bible says that if your mom or dad are in this position, it’s really important for you to take care of them first before helping others outside the family. It's like being a good helper at home.
Historical Background
The letter was written by Paul to Timothy around 63 AD. It aimed to provide guidance on various matters including how to treat widows, in a context where women were often vulnerable and dependent on their families or community support.
Living It Out Today
In modern life, this can apply when a family member is responsible for caring for an elderly parent. Instead of always volunteering elsewhere, they might prioritize being there for the parent, which is a valuable act of faithfulness.
Topics
family dutiesrespect for parentsresponsibilityfaithfulnesscaring for the elderlywidows
'Piety' here means showing respect, devotion, and care. It's about being faithful and respectful towards one’s family members.
Does this apply only to children of widows?
While the text specifically mentions children or nephews of widows, the principle can be applied broadly to any situation where family support is needed.
How does repaying parents relate to pleasing God?
In biblical teaching, honoring and supporting one's parents is a way to show respect for God’s commandments. By caring for their needs, you honor both your parents and God.
What if the family member can't take care of an elderly parent due to other commitments?
In such cases, it's important to seek a balance where possible, ensuring that proper care is arranged while also addressing other responsibilities. Community or church support might be helpful.