How can we show hospitality and faith like the widow in our lives? Stepping into Zarephath “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.’” (1 Kings 17:10) Observing the Widow’s Heart • Immediate responsiveness—she pauses her own urgent task to serve a stranger • Practical hospitality—offers what she has even before she knows Elijah’s full request • Courageous faith—risks her last resources after Elijah’s promise (vv. 13-14) Hospitality in Our Homes Today • Welcome without hesitation: open the door, make eye contact, smile, listen first • Share the ordinary: water, a snack, a simple meal—God uses the basics • Include the vulnerable: widows, single parents, students, refugees (Hebrews 13:2; Romans 12:13) • Offer time, not just things: conversation, prayer, presence Faith That Takes Risks • Give before you see surplus (Proverbs 3:9-10) • Obey specific promptings of Scripture and Spirit even when resources feel low (Luke 6:38) • Trust God’s character more than visible supply (2 Corinthians 9:8) Trusting God’s Provision • The widow’s flour and oil never ran out (1 Kings 17:15-16) — God’s faithfulness is literal and dependable • Jesus points to her as an example of true belief (Luke 4:25-26) • Seek His kingdom first; daily needs follow (Matthew 6:33) Practicing Widow-Like Faith in Daily Life 1. Set aside a “first-fruits” portion of groceries or funds each week for guests or those in need 2. Keep a simple meal ready to warm and share at short notice 3. Invite someone lonely to your family table once a month 4. Speak Scripture promises aloud when giving feels risky (Psalm 37:25) 5. Record answered prayers and unexpected provisions to strengthen future faith Scriptures to Memorize • 1 Kings 17:14 — “For this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘The jar of flour will not be exhausted and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the LORD sends rain on the face of the earth.’” • Hebrews 13:2 — “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.” • Romans 12:13 — “Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.” |
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