1 Kings 17:10

So Elijah 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."

Study Bible

So he got up and went to Zarephath
The phrase "So he got up" indicates Elijah's immediate obedience to God's command. In Hebrew, the verb used here conveys a sense of readiness and willingness to act. Elijah's journey to Zarephath, a Phoenician city outside of Israel, underscores God's sovereignty over all nations and His provision beyond the borders of Israel. Zarephath, meaning "smelting place," symbolizes a place of refining, both for Elijah and the widow he is about to meet. This journey reflects the theme of faith and trust in God's provision, even in foreign lands.

When he arrived at the gate of the city
The "gate of the city" was a place of social and economic activity in ancient times. It was where elders met, judgments were made, and travelers entered. Elijah's arrival at the gate signifies a divine appointment orchestrated by God. The gate represents a threshold, a place of transition where God's plans begin to unfold. This setting highlights the intersection of divine providence and human need.

behold, a widow was there gathering sticks
The word "behold" draws attention to the unexpected and significant encounter. Widows in ancient Israel were often among the most vulnerable, lacking a husband's protection and provision. Her gathering sticks indicates her dire poverty and the scarcity of resources. This scene sets the stage for God's miraculous provision, emphasizing His care for the marginalized and His ability to use the least likely individuals to fulfill His purposes.

And Elijah called to her and said
Elijah's calling to the widow demonstrates his role as God's prophet, acting on divine instruction. His approach to the widow is direct and purposeful, reflecting the urgency of God's mission. This interaction highlights the importance of obedience and the willingness to engage with those whom God places in our path.

'Please bring me a little water in a cup, that I may drink.'
The request for "a little water in a cup" seems simple, yet it is profound in its context. Water, a basic necessity, was scarce during the drought, making this request significant. Elijah's polite request, using "please," shows respect and humility, even in his need. This moment foreshadows the greater miracle to come, as God uses this small act of hospitality to demonstrate His abundant provision. The phrase "that I may drink" underscores the humanity of Elijah, reminding us that even God's prophets have needs, and it is through these needs that God often reveals His glory.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elijah
A prophet of God, known for his faithfulness and miraculous acts. He is central to this account as he follows God's command to go to Zarephath.

2. Zarephath
A city in the region of Sidon, outside of Israel, significant for being a place where God provided for Elijah through a widow during a time of drought and famine.

3. The Widow
A Gentile woman who, despite her dire circumstances, becomes an instrument of God's provision for Elijah. Her interaction with Elijah demonstrates faith and obedience.

4. The Drought
A severe drought in Israel, which God had announced through Elijah as a judgment on the land. This event sets the stage for Elijah's journey to Zarephath.

5. The Gathering of Sticks
Symbolic of the widow's dire situation, as she prepares for what she believes to be her last meal. This act underscores the severity of the famine and her desperation.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Call
Elijah's journey to Zarephath demonstrates the importance of obeying God's direction, even when it leads to unexpected places or people.

God's Provision in Unlikely Places
God's provision often comes from unexpected sources, as seen in the widow's role in sustaining Elijah. Trust in God's provision, even when circumstances seem dire.

Faith in Action
The widow's willingness to share her last resources with Elijah exemplifies faith in action. Our faith should lead us to acts of kindness and generosity, even in scarcity.

Inclusivity of God's Plan
The account of the widow of Zarephath illustrates that God's care and provision extend beyond the boundaries of Israel, foreshadowing the inclusion of Gentiles in the New Testament.

Dependence on God
Both Elijah and the widow demonstrate a dependence on God for their daily needs, reminding us to rely on God rather than our own understanding or resources.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elijah's obedience to God's command to go to Zarephath challenge us in our own walk of faith?

2. In what ways can we see God's provision in our lives, especially from unexpected sources or people?

3. How does the widow's act of faith in sharing her last meal inspire us to trust God in times of scarcity?

4. What does the inclusion of the widow of Zarephath in God's plan teach us about the scope of God's love and care?

5. How can we apply the principle of dependence on God in our daily lives, especially when facing difficult circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Luke 4:25-26
Jesus references the widow of Zarephath, highlighting God's provision and the inclusion of Gentiles in His plan.

James 5:17-18
Elijah's prayer life is emphasized, showing the power of prayer in the life of a righteous person, which is relevant to the context of the drought.

Matthew 10:41-42
The reward for receiving a prophet and giving even a cup of cold water, which parallels the widow's act of kindness to Elijah.