What steps can we take to recognize God's provision as Elijah did? Setting the Scene – 1 Kings 19:6 “Elijah looked around, and there by his head was a cake baked on hot stones and a jar of water. So he ate and drank and lay down again.” Pause and Look Around • Elijah “looked around” before he saw the bread and water. • Slow your pace long enough to survey what God has already placed within reach. • Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” Stillness sharpens spiritual sight. Acknowledge the Giver Behind the Gift • Elijah instantly ate, but the text later shows him attributing the supply to the LORD (v. 7). • Verbalize thanks the moment a need is met—big or small. • James 1:17: “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights.” Receive Before You Resume • Elijah didn’t push onward until he ate and rested again. • Accept God’s provision fully; don’t feel guilty for resting in His care. • Matthew 11:28: “Come to Me, all you who are weary… and I will give you rest.” Record Past Faithfulness • A simple meal became a memorial of God’s care that fueled a forty-day journey (v. 8). • Keep a written log of answered prayers, supplies, and unexpected helps. • Psalm 77:11: “I will remember the works of the LORD.” Expect Provision Tailored to the Journey • The bread and water were exactly what Elijah needed for the next stretch. • Trust God to customize provision for each season—no more, no less. • Philippians 4:19: “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Cultivate Daily Dependence • The angel’s repetition—“Arise and eat” (v. 7)—teaches ongoing reliance, not one-time fixes. • Begin and end each day asking, “Father, what are You sending for today?” • Exodus 16:4: daily manna illustrates this rhythm. Share Testimonies of Provision • Elijah later mentored Elisha, passing on lessons of God’s faithfulness. • Speak of God’s supply to family, friends, and church; it multiplies faith. • Psalm 71:18: “Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare Your strength to the next generation.” Living It Out Look, thank, receive, record, expect, depend, and share—repeat these steps, and you’ll recognize God’s provision as clearly as Elijah saw bread on the stones. |
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