However, we all know that just giving handouts is not wise. Therefore, he set out some guidelines, first for older women (1 Tim 5:9, 10). He then turns to younger widows. Apparently there has been difficulty with some younger widows in the past, especially if they are angling for the same kind of economic support that the older women are receiving.

He notes (v. 12) that in the case of some, "when their sensual desires overcome their dedication to Christ, they want to marry. Thus they bring judgment on themselves, because they have broken their first pledge" (NIV). What does all this mean? - The phrase regarding "sensual desires" is very strong. It emphasizes undisciplined, unruly behavior of a sensual nature. - "Pledge" is the same word translated "the faith" in v. 8, "a technical term in the Pastorals which denotes the whole matrix of the Christian religion. Rejection of the faith here is equivalent to denial of the faith" (Philip Towner, Commentary on 1 Timothy).

Thus, we see that these young widows are rebellious in nature who are not following the advice and guidance of the wise church leaders, but are either planning to marry unbelievers or rush into remarriage hastily.

Paul thus says that they "bring judgment on themselves." The word "judgment" here refers to a process leading to a decision, which may be either a simple statement "you are wrong" or "condemnation" by a judge. In this case, I think Paul is saying, "This kind of behavior is not acceptable, and thus you are not a candidate for financial help." The New Living Bible translates it "would be guilty."

It is important to note that Paul is not against widows remarrying, as we see in 5:14. He is merely underscoring special cases of women whose comportment and character traits are such that they should not receive material aid. They seem to have even turned their backs on what appeared to be their original Christian commitment.

I'm sorry that you find yourself fearful of your security. I would encourage you to meditate on the following verses in Romans 8:31ff: If God is for us, who can ever be against us? Since God did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won't God, who gave us Christ, also give us everything else? Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for his own? Will God? No! He is the one who has given us right standing with himself. Who then will condemn us? Will Christ Jesus"? No, for he is the one who died for us and was raised to life for us and is sitting at the place of highest honor next to God, pleading for us. Can anything ever separate us from Christ's love? ...No ...overwhelming victory is ours though Christ, who loved us... Nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. I trust these thoughts will be helpful and even encouraging to you.