Topical Bible: Faith: Widow of Zarephath in Feeding Elijah

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The account of the Widow of Zarephath is a profound illustration of faith and divine provision, found in 1 Kings 17:8-24. This narrative occurs during a period of severe drought and famine in the land, a judgment pronounced by the prophet Elijah as a consequence of Israel's idolatry under King Ahab's reign.

Context and Background

Zarephath, a town located in the region of Sidon, was outside the borders of Israel, indicating that the widow was likely a Gentile. This setting underscores the universality of God's concern and provision, extending beyond the chosen people of Israel. The widow's encounter with Elijah occurs after God commands Elijah to leave the brook Cherith, where he had been miraculously sustained by ravens, and go to Zarephath, where a widow would provide for him.

The Encounter with Elijah

Upon arriving at the gates of Zarephath, Elijah encounters the widow gathering sticks. He requests a drink of water and a piece of bread. The widow responds with a declaration of her dire circumstances: "As surely as the LORD your God lives, I have no bread—only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug. I am gathering a few sticks to take home and prepare a meal for myself and my son, that we may eat it and die" (1 Kings 17:12).

Demonstration of Faith

Despite her desperate situation, the widow exhibits remarkable faith. Elijah instructs her not to fear and assures her that the LORD God of Israel promises, "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" (1 Kings 17:14). Trusting in this promise, the widow obeys Elijah's command, using the last of her resources to prepare a meal for him.

Divine Provision

The widow's faith is rewarded as God's promise is fulfilled. The scripture records, "So there was food every day for Elijah and for the woman and her household. The jar of flour was not exhausted and the jug of oil did not run dry, according to the word of the LORD spoken by Elijah" (1 Kings 17:15-16). This miraculous provision sustains them throughout the duration of the famine, demonstrating God's faithfulness and the power of faith in His word.

Further Testing and Faith

The narrative continues with a further test of faith when the widow's son falls ill and dies. In her distress, she questions Elijah, but he takes the child to the upper room, prays fervently, and God restores the child's life. This miracle leads the widow to a deeper recognition of Elijah's prophetic authority and the truth of God's word: "Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the LORD from your mouth is truth" (1 Kings 17:24).

Significance

The account of the Widow of Zarephath is a testament to the power of faith and obedience in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. It highlights God's sovereignty and His ability to provide for His people, regardless of their nationality or status. The widow's faith, though initially small and tested by dire circumstances, becomes a conduit for divine blessing and revelation. This account serves as an enduring reminder of the importance of trusting in God's promises and His provision.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 17:13-15
And Elijah said to her, Fear not; go and do as you have said: but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it to me, and after make for you and for your son.
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Library

Elijah's Weakness, and Its Cube
... The ravens, the widow of Zarephath, an angel ... The revelation of a watchful, tender
Providence often rebukes gloomy unbelief and shames us back to faith. ...
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