1 Kings 17:6

The ravens would bring him bread and meat in the morning and evening, and he would drink from the brook.

Study Bible

The ravens
In the Hebrew text, the word for "ravens" is "עֹרְבִים" (orevim). Ravens are considered unclean birds according to Levitical law (Leviticus 11:15), which makes their role in this narrative particularly striking. This choice of messenger underscores God's sovereignty and ability to use any part of His creation to fulfill His purposes. Historically, ravens are known for their intelligence and adaptability, which may symbolize God's provision in unexpected ways. The use of ravens also highlights the miraculous nature of God's provision, as these birds, typically scavengers, are delivering sustenance rather than consuming it.

would bring him
The Hebrew verb "בּוֹא" (bo) is used here, meaning "to come" or "to bring." This action is continuous, indicating God's ongoing provision for Elijah. The use of this verb emphasizes the faithfulness and reliability of God's care. In a broader scriptural context, this reflects the theme of divine provision seen throughout the Bible, where God meets the needs of His people in times of distress.

bread and meat
Bread ("לֶחֶם" - lechem) and meat ("בָּשָׂר" - basar) represent the basic necessities of life. In the ancient Near Eastern context, bread was a staple food, while meat was considered a luxury, often reserved for special occasions. The provision of both bread and meat signifies not just survival, but abundance and care. This dual provision can be seen as a foreshadowing of the spiritual nourishment that God provides, as seen in the New Testament with Jesus as the "bread of life" (John 6:35).

in the morning and evening
The regularity of this provision, twice daily, mirrors the rhythm of the daily sacrifices in the temple (Exodus 29:38-42). This consistency underscores God's unwavering faithfulness and the importance of daily reliance on Him. It also reflects the biblical principle of seeking God and His provision continually, as seen in the Lord's Prayer, "Give us this day our daily bread" (Matthew 6:11).

he would drink from the brook
The Hebrew word for "brook" is "נַחַל" (nachal), which can refer to a stream or a wadi, a seasonal riverbed. This natural source of water represents God's provision through creation. In a historical and geographical context, the brook Cherith, where Elijah stayed, would have been a secluded and hidden place, providing safety and sustenance. This phrase highlights the theme of God as the living water, a source of life and refreshment, as echoed in Jeremiah 17:13 and John 4:14.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elijah
A prophet of God, Elijah is central to this passage. He is known for his unwavering faith and obedience to God, even in dire circumstances.

2. Ravens
Birds that are considered unclean in Jewish law (Leviticus 11:15), yet God uses them to provide for Elijah, demonstrating His sovereignty and provision.

3. Brook Cherith
A small stream east of the Jordan River where Elijah is directed by God to hide and be sustained during a drought.

4. God's Provision
This event highlights God's miraculous provision for Elijah, using unexpected means to sustain him during a time of need.

5. Drought
The backdrop of this event is a severe drought in Israel, a judgment from God due to the nation's idolatry and disobedience.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Provision
God can use any means, even those considered unclean or unlikely, to provide for His people. Trust in His sovereignty and creativity in meeting needs.

Faith in Uncertain Times
Elijah's obedience to God's command to go to the brook Cherith demonstrates faith. In times of uncertainty, we are called to trust and obey God's direction.

Dependence on God
Just as Elijah depended on God's daily provision, we are encouraged to rely on God for our daily needs, recognizing our dependence on Him.

God's Faithfulness
The consistency of the ravens bringing food morning and evening illustrates God's faithfulness. We can trust that God is faithful to His promises.

Unexpected Sources of Blessing
Be open to God's provision coming from unexpected sources. His ways are higher than ours, and He often works in surprising ways.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elijah's experience with the ravens challenge your understanding of God's provision in your life?

2. In what ways can you practice greater dependence on God for your daily needs, as Elijah did at the brook Cherith?

3. Reflect on a time when God provided for you in an unexpected way. How did that experience strengthen your faith?

4. How can the account of Elijah and the ravens encourage you to trust God during times of scarcity or uncertainty?

5. What other biblical examples of God's provision can you think of, and how do they reinforce the lessons from 1 Kings 17:6?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 6:26
Jesus speaks about God's provision for the birds of the air, reminding us of His care for us, similar to how He provided for Elijah through the ravens.

Philippians 4:19
Paul assures believers that God will supply all their needs, echoing the provision seen in Elijah's account.

Genesis 8:7
The raven is first mentioned in the Bible during the account of Noah, symbolizing God's use of creation to fulfill His purposes.