“He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment.”
This verse is part of a passage in Deuteronomy where Moses is recounting the giving of the Ten Commandments and other laws to the Israelites. In this particular verse, Moses describes the character of God and His concern for the vulnerable members of society, such as the fatherless, widows, and strangers.
Context: Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Old Testament and is part of the Pentateuch, also known as the Torah. It contains the final speeches and teachings of Moses to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. In Deuteronomy 10, Moses is recounting the time when God gave him the second set of tablets containing the Ten Commandments.
The Judgment of the Fatherless and Widow: The verse states that God executes the judgment of the fatherless and widow. The fatherless and widows are often mentioned together in the Bible as vulnerable members of society who need special care and protection. Here, executing judgment means that God ensures justice and protection for them, defending their rights and meeting their needs.
Love for the Stranger: The verse also highlights God’s love for the stranger or foreigner. Throughout the Bible, God expresses His concern for the sojourners and aliens who reside among His people. He commands the Israelites to treat the strangers with kindness and justice, reminding them that they were once strangers in the land of Egypt. In this context, God’s love for the stranger is expressed through providing them with food and clothing, meeting their basic needs.
Application: Deuteronomy 10:18 teaches us important principles about God’s character and how we should reflect His character in our own lives. It emphasizes God’s care for the marginalized and vulnerable in society, calling us to imitate Him in our dealings with others. As believers, we are called to show love and compassion to the fatherless, widows, and strangers in our midst, providing for their needs and advocating for justice on their behalf.
In summary, Deuteronomy 10:18 highlights God’s role as the protector and provider for the fatherless, widows, and strangers. It reveals His character of justice, love, and compassion. As followers of God, we are called to imitate His example and demonstrate love and care for those who are vulnerable in our society.
