Famine is a severe shortage of food resulting in widespread hunger and distress. In the Bible, famines are often depicted as significant events that test the faith and resilience of God's people. They are sometimes portrayed as divine judgments or as opportunities for God to demonstrate His providence and power.

One of the earliest mentions of famine is found in Genesis 12:10, where Abram goes down to Egypt to escape a famine in Canaan: "Now there was a famine in the land, and Abram went down to Egypt to live there for a while, because the famine was severe." This event sets the stage for God's unfolding plan for Abram and his descendants.

Another notable famine occurs during the time of Joseph, as recorded in Genesis 41. Pharaoh's dreams, interpreted by Joseph, foretell seven years of abundance followed by seven years of severe famine. Joseph's wise administration during the years of plenty ensures that Egypt has enough grain to survive the famine, and this event leads to the migration of Jacob's family to Egypt, preserving the line of Israel.

In the book of Ruth, a famine in Bethlehem prompts Elimelech and his family to move to Moab, setting the stage for the account of Ruth and Boaz, which ultimately leads to the lineage of King David (Ruth 1:1).

Famines are also seen as instruments of God's judgment. In 2 Samuel 21:1, a famine during King David's reign is attributed to Saul's bloodguilt against the Gibeonites: "During the reign of David there was a famine for three successive years, and David sought the face of the LORD. The LORD said, 'It is on account of Saul and his bloodstained house; it is because he put the Gibeonites to death.'"

The prophetic books often mention famine as a consequence of Israel's disobedience. In Amos 8:11, the LORD declares a different kind of famine: "Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord GOD, when I will send a famine on the land—not a famine of bread or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the LORD."

Inquiry of the LORD

The inquiry of the LORD refers to the practice of seeking divine guidance or revelation, often through prayer, the casting of lots, or consultation with prophets or priests. This practice is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, reflecting the dependence of God's people on His wisdom and direction.

One of the most notable examples is King David, who frequently inquired of the LORD before making significant decisions. In 1 Samuel 23:2, David seeks God's guidance regarding an attack on the Philistines: "So David inquired of the LORD, 'Shall I go and attack these Philistines?' And the LORD said to David, 'Go and attack the Philistines and save Keilah.'"

The Urim and Thummim, mysterious objects associated with the high priest's breastplate, were used for inquiring of the LORD, as seen in passages like 1 Samuel 28:6: "He inquired of the LORD, but the LORD did not answer him by dreams or Urim or prophets."

In the time of the judges, the Israelites often inquired of the LORD for guidance in battle. Judges 20:18 records such an inquiry: "The Israelites set out, went up to Bethel, and inquired of God. They asked, 'Who of us shall go up first to fight against the Benjamites?' The LORD replied, 'Judah shall go first.'"

The inquiry of the LORD underscores the importance of seeking God's will and direction in all matters. It reflects a posture of humility and dependence on divine wisdom, acknowledging that human understanding is limited and that true guidance comes from God alone.