"Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need. 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, for this is pleasing to God. The widow who is really in need and left all alone puts her hope in God and continues night and day to pray and to ask God for help. But the widow who lives for pleasure is dead even while she lives. Give the people these instructions, too, so that no one may be open to blame. If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever." 1 Timothy 5:3-8 (NIV)
In providing instruction to Timothy regarding how to treat the less fortunate within his congregation, especially the widows, the Apostle Paul tells him that the Church should provide for those widows and orphans who do not have a family to support them. Those with family members should provide for them. Even pagan non-believers provide for their family.
As Christians we are to provide for our family members, especially our spouse, our children, our parents, and our siblings. This can also be extended to include grand children and grand parents, if the need exists. We are to exhibit compassionate Christian love, and this starts with our family. In the King James Version verse three states "Honor widows that are widows indeed." Exodus 20:15 "Honor thy father and thy mother..." Honor here implies "to show respect or care"; "to support"; "to treat graciously"; it includes meeting all needs including financial needs. Be careful how you treat your parents, your kids are learning how to care for you as they watch you care for your parents. And more importantly, God is watching.
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