1 Kings 17:15

So she went and did according to the word of Elijah, and there was food every day for Elijah and the woman and her household.

Study Bible

So she went and did
This phrase highlights the widow's obedience and faith. In the Hebrew context, the word for "went" (וַתֵּלֶךְ, "vatelekh") implies a deliberate action, suggesting that she made a conscious decision to trust Elijah's words. Her actions reflect a deep faith, as she was willing to use the last of her resources based on the promise of a prophet she had just met. This obedience is a powerful testament to the faith that God desires from His followers, trusting in His provision even when circumstances seem dire.

according to the word of Elijah
Elijah, whose name means "My God is Yahweh," was a prophet during a time of great apostasy in Israel. His words carried the authority of God, and the widow's compliance with his instructions demonstrates her recognition of this divine authority. The phrase underscores the importance of heeding God's word delivered through His prophets. Historically, prophets were God's mouthpieces, and their words were not merely suggestions but divine commands that required faith and action.

and she and he and her household
This phrase indicates the scope of the miracle. It wasn't just the widow who benefited from her obedience, but also Elijah and her entire household. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a household could include extended family and servants, suggesting that God's provision was abundant and far-reaching. This reflects the biblical principle that God's blessings often extend beyond the individual to impact a wider community, emphasizing the communal nature of God's care and provision.

had food to eat
The provision of food is a direct response to the widow's immediate need. In the Hebrew context, food (לֶחֶם, "lechem") is often symbolic of God's provision and sustenance. This miracle is reminiscent of God's provision of manna to the Israelites in the wilderness, highlighting His ability to provide for His people in miraculous ways. It serves as a reminder that God is attentive to the physical needs of His people and is capable of providing in ways that surpass human understanding.

for many days
This phrase signifies the duration and sufficiency of God's provision. The Hebrew word for "days" (יָמִים, "yamim") can imply an indefinite period, suggesting that God's provision was not just a one-time event but a sustained miracle. This ongoing provision is a testament to God's faithfulness and His ability to sustain His people through prolonged periods of need. It encourages believers to trust in God's timing and His continuous care, even when the future seems uncertain.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elijah
A prophet of God who plays a central role in this account. He is sent by God to the widow of Zarephath during a time of drought and famine.

2. Widow of Zarephath
A Gentile woman living in Zarephath, a town in Sidon. She is commanded by God to provide for Elijah, despite her own dire circumstances.

3. Zarephath
A town in the region of Sidon, outside of Israel. It is significant that God sends Elijah to a Gentile area, highlighting His care for all people.

4. Drought and Famine
The backdrop of this account is a severe drought and famine in the land, which God had brought upon Israel as a judgment for their idolatry.

5. Miracle of Provision
The event where God miraculously provides food for Elijah, the widow, and her household through the multiplication of flour and oil.

Teaching Points

Faith in Action
The widow's obedience to Elijah's request, despite her dire situation, demonstrates faith in action. True faith often requires stepping out in trust, even when circumstances seem impossible.

God's Provision
This passage illustrates God's ability to provide for His people in miraculous ways. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's provision, even in times of scarcity.

Inclusivity of God's Care
God's sending of Elijah to a Gentile widow underscores His care for all people, not just Israel. This foreshadows the New Testament message of salvation for all nations.

Obedience Brings Blessing
The widow's obedience to God's word through Elijah resulted in a blessing that sustained her household. Obedience to God often leads to unexpected blessings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the widow's response to Elijah's request demonstrate her faith, and what can we learn from her example about trusting God in difficult circumstances?

2. In what ways does this account of provision challenge you to trust God with your own needs and resources?

3. How does the inclusion of a Gentile widow in God's plan of provision reflect the broader biblical theme of God's love for all nations?

4. What are some practical ways you can demonstrate faith in action in your daily life, similar to the widow's obedience?

5. How can you apply the principle of "obedience brings blessing" in your current life situation, and what steps can you take to align more closely with God's will?

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.

Matthew 6:25-34
Jesus teaches about God's provision and encourages believers not to worry about their needs, as God knows and provides for them.

Philippians 4:19
Paul assures believers that God will supply all their needs according to His riches in glory.