How does God's command to Elijah connect with Matthew 6:33 on seeking provision? God’s Word to Elijah at the Brook “Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah: ‘Leave here, turn eastward, and hide yourself by the Brook Cherith, east of the Jordan. You are to drink from the brook, and I have commanded the ravens to provide for you there.’ So Elijah did as the LORD had told him” (1 Kings 17:2-5). God’s Word to Elijah in Zarephath “Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah: ‘Get up and go to Zarephath … behold, I have commanded a widow there to provide for you.’ … So he got up and went to Zarephath” (1 Kings 17:8-10). Jesus’ Word to Disciples “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). Common Thread: Seeking First, Provision Second • Elijah’s first priority was obedience—going exactly where God said, when God said. • Jesus calls disciples to the same priority—pursue God’s reign and ways above all. • In both accounts, provision is promised after the call to seek. • The phrases “I have commanded the ravens” and “I have commanded a widow” parallel “will be added to you”—God already has provision lined up. What Elijah Shows Us about Matthew 6:33 1. Seek: Elijah turns from public ministry to hidden obedience; disciples are told to turn from anxious striving to kingdom pursuit. 2. Trust: A brook in drought and birds that scavenge are unlikely suppliers; Jesus points to lilies and birds as proof of the Father’s care (Matthew 6:26-30). 3. Receive: Daily bread arrives morning and evening (1 Kings 17:6); “all these things” covers food, drink, and clothing (Matthew 6:31-32). Supporting Passages • Psalm 34:10—“…those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.” • Philippians 4:19—“My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Living It Out • Prioritize obedience to God’s revealed will before strategizing about resources. • Expect provision to show up in God-chosen places, not merely comfortable ones. • Measure success by faithfulness to God’s command, trusting that “all these things” will follow. |
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