by Michael Hopkins
The story of Elijah and the widow, as told in the Bible in 1 Kings 17:1-16, is a remarkable account of faith, miracles, and divine provision. It’s a story that encourages us to trust in God’s provision, especially in challenging circumstances1.
The Prophecy of Drought (1 Kings 17:1-7)
The story begins with Elijah, a prophet of God, prophesying to King Ahab that there will be no rain or dew in the land of Israel for years, a consequence of the king’s wicked ways1. This prophecy sets the stage for the events that follow. The land becomes parched, and famine spreads throughout the region.
“And Elijah the Tishbite, of the inhabitants of Gilead, said to Ahab, ‘As the Lord God of Israel lives, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, except at my word.’” (1 Kings 17:1)
Miracle at Zarephath (1 Kings 17:8-16)
As the brook dries up due to the drought, God directs Elijah to Zarephath in Sidon, where a widow will provide for him1. When Elijah arrives at the town gate, he sees a widow gathering sticks2. He calls to her and asks for a little water and a piece of bread2.
“So he arose and went to Zarephath. And when he came to the gate of the city, indeed a widow was there gathering sticks. And he called to her and said, ‘Please bring me a little water in a cup, that I may drink.’ And as she was going to get it, he called to her and said, ‘Please bring me a morsel of bread in your hand.’” (1 Kings 17:10-11)
The widow, however, is in despair. She has only a handful of flour and a little oil left, just enough for one last meal for her and her son2. Despite her initial despair and minimal resources, the widow, prompted by Elijah’s reassurances, uses her last bits of flour and oil to prepare a meal for him1.
“So she said, ‘As the Lord your God lives, I do not have bread, only a handful of flour in a bin, and a little oil in a jar; and see, I am gathering a couple of sticks that I may go in and prepare it for myself and my son, that we may eat it, and die.’” (1 Kings 17:12)
Elijah reassures her, saying:
“Do not fear; go and do as you have said, but make me a small cake from it first, and bring it to me; and afterward make some for yourself and your son. For thus says the Lord God of Israel: ‘The bin of flour shall not be used up, nor shall the jar of oil run dry, until the day the Lord sends rain on the earth.’” (1 Kings 17:13-14)
Miraculously, her jar of flour and jug of oil never run out, demonstrating God’s divine provision1. This miracle shows us that when we act in faith and obedience, God miraculously provides.
“So she went away and did according to the word of Elijah; and she and he and her household ate for many days. The bin of flour was not used up, nor did the jar of oil run dry, according to the word of the Lord which He spoke by Elijah.” (1 Kings 17:15-16)
Lessons from the Story
The story of Elijah and the widow teaches us several important lessons. First, it shows us the importance of obedience, even when it doesn’t make sense3. Both Elijah and the widow obeyed God’s instructions, even though they seemed illogical. Their obedience led to miraculous provision3.
Second, the story teaches us to trust in God’s provision. Despite the severe famine, God provided for Elijah, the widow, and her son1. This reminds us that God is our provider and that we can trust Him to meet our needs, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Finally, the story shows us the power of faith. The widow, despite her dire circumstances, chose to trust in God’s promise through Elijah1. Her faith was rewarded with a miracle. This encourages us to have faith in God, knowing that He is able to do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine.
In conclusion, the story of Elijah and the widow is a powerful reminder of God’s provision, the importance of obedience and faith, and the miracles that can occur when we choose to trust in God. It encourages us to look to God in all circumstances, trusting in His provision and His promises.
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