How can we trust God during personal trials, as seen in 1 Kings 17:17? The Setting in Zarephath “Later on, the son of the woman who owned the house became ill, and his sickness grew severe until no breath remained in him.” — 1 Kings 17:17 The Weight of Sudden Crisis • A household that had just witnessed daily miracles (17:14-16) is plunged into grief. • Trials often strike hardest after seasons of provision, reminding us that faith must keep growing. Why God Remains Trustworthy in Any Trial • He has already proven His faithfulness. – The widow’s jar of flour and jug of oil never ran dry (17:14-16). • His character never changes. – “I, the LORD, do not change.” — Malachi 3:6 • His power extends over life and death. – “The LORD heard the voice of Elijah, and the life of the child returned to him, and he lived.” — 1 Kings 17:22 • He weaves every event for good. – “God works all things together for the good of those who love Him.” — Romans 8:28 • He draws near to the hurting. – “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted.” — Psalm 34:18 • He uses trials to mature us. – James 1:2-4 shows hardship producing perseverance and completeness. Practical Ways to Trust Him Today • Pour out the pain honestly, as Elijah did (17:20-21; cf. 1 Peter 5:7). • Anchor your mind in Scripture. – “This is my comfort in affliction: Your promise preserves my life.” — Psalm 119:50 • Obey the next clear step even if answers are missing (Elijah carried the boy to the upper room, 17:19). • Lean on fellow believers for shared faith and comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3-4; Galatians 6:2). • Remember past deliverances—yours and others’. – “They overcame by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” — Revelation 12:11 • Refuse fear’s narrative; embrace God’s. – “Do not fear, for I am with you.” — Isaiah 41:10 Living the Lesson The widow moved from despair (“What do you have against me, O man of God?”) to declaration (“Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the LORD in your mouth is truth,” 17:24). Every surrendered trial can end with that same confession, because the God who revived a breathless child is still sustaining, redeeming, and proving His word reliable today. |
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