Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day.
Widow indeed, and (left) desolate - contrasted with her who has children to support her (1 Timothy 5:4).
Trusteth in God - Greek, 'hath rested, and doth rest, her hope in God.' This 1 Timothy 5:5 adds another qualification for church maintenance, besides her being "desolate," or without children to support her. She must be not one "that liveth in pleasure" (1 Timothy 5:6), but one making God her hope х epi (G1909) ton (G3588) Theon (G2316): note, 1 Timothy 4:10: God is the aim whereto her hope is directed; whereas, 1 Timothy 4:10, dative expresses hope resting on God as her present stay (Wiesinger)], and continuing instantly in prayers. Her destitution of earthly ties leaves her more unencumbered for devoting her days to God (1 Corinthians 7:33-34). Compare 'Anna, a widow,' who remained unmarried after her husband's death, and "departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day" (Luke 2:36-37). Such a one is the fittest object for the church's help (1 Timothy 5:3); for such a one is helping Christ's Church by her prayers for it. 'Ardour in prayers flows from hoping confidence in God' (Leo).
In [her: tais (G3588 )] supplications and prayers (notes, Philippians 4:6 ; 1 Timothy 2:1 ) night and day - another coincidence with Luke 18:7: contrast Satan's accusations "day and night" (Revelation 12:10).