How does 1 Kings 17:10 connect to God's provision in Matthew 6:31-33? Setting the Scene • Israel is in the grip of a divinely sent drought (1 Kings 17:1). • Elijah follows the LORD’s specific, literal instructions—from the brook Kerith (vv. 2-6) to the widow at Zarephath (vv. 8-9). • Every move showcases God’s personal, timely provision. Verse Spotlight – 1 Kings 17:10 “So he got up and went to Zarephath. When he arrived at the city gate, there was a widow gathering sticks. Elijah called to her and said, ‘Please bring me a little water in a cup so that I may drink.’” Jesus’ Teaching – Matthew 6:31-33 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles strive after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Connecting the Dots: Same God, Same Promise • Immediate Need – 1 Kings: Elijah asks for water during a drought—seemingly impossible. – Matthew: Jesus lists food, drink, clothing—the staples of life that easily provoke anxiety. • God Already Knows – 1 Kings: The LORD has “commanded” the widow to provide (v. 9); He’s ahead of the need. – Matthew: “Your heavenly Father knows that you need them” (v. 32). • Call to Obedient Faith – Widow acts on Elijah’s request before seeing the miracle (vv. 11-15). – Disciples are told to “seek first” the kingdom, trusting provision will follow (v. 33). • Miraculous Supply – Flour and oil never run out (1 Kings 17:16). – “All these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33)—same guarantee, different setting. • God Uses Ordinary Means – A destitute widow becomes a channel of provision. – Daily necessities come through everyday avenues, yet originate from the Father’s hand. Lessons for Today • God’s promises are literal and reliable; the historical event at Zarephath authenticates Christ’s words on the mount. • Provision often begins with a step of obedience before the resources appear. • Scarcity does not cancel God’s supply; it highlights it. • Seeking God’s kingdom is not a distraction from practical needs—it is the pathway to seeing them met. Supporting Scriptures • Psalm 37:25—“I have not seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.” • Philippians 4:19—“My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” • 2 Corinthians 9:8—God “is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things… you will abound in every good work.” • 1 Peter 5:7—“Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” The God who sent Elijah to a widow’s gate is the same Father who tells His children not to worry. His track record proves He can be trusted—then, now, and always. |
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