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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise Elijah told the widow of Zarephath: “Do not fear…the jar of flour shall not be spent, and the jug of oil shall not be empty, until the day that the Lord sends rain upon the earth” (1 Kgs 17:13–14). Hallelujah! You know my needs, and you have promised to sustain me through the storms and trials of life. I rejoice in the peace that comes from knowing that you are my God. Praise the Lord! Today in Your Word Today you told me about the death of Asa and the reigns of Jehoshaphat and Ahab. I was disappointed to learn that Asa spent the last years of his life preparing his tomb instead of his heart (2 Chr 16:12, 14). What a tragic end to a such a godly man! Thankfully, Jehoshaphat loved you and followed your commands. He even ordered the Law to be taught throughout the cities of Judah. This teaches me that when I love you, I will want to share your Word with others. You blessed Jehoshaphat and made him wealthy and powerful, but he did not become proud. Instead, he recognized that you were the true source of his success. I would do well to follow his example of humility. While Jehoshaphat worshipped you in the south, Ahab sought other gods in the north. Not content with Jeroboam’s golden calves, he married Jezebel and brought her Baals to Samaria. Baal was the god of rain and bountiful harvests, and I can imagine Ahab’s surprise when Elijah told him there would be no rain until he gave the word. You were out to show an idolatrous Israel that you were the one true God of heaven! Elijah often comes across as larger than life, but James said that he was just like me (Jam 5:16–17). He is a stirring example of the great power that comes when a righteous person prays in harmony with your will. Reflection Elijah watched as the Kerith brook slowly dried up, but he didn’t leave until you told him to go to Zarephath. Am I willing to remain where you have placed me even if my circumstances are slowly getting worse and worse? Request Father, help me to remain faithful to your will even when things are going wrong all around me. Remind me that you will care for me just like you cared for Elijah. Thanksgiving Thank you for telling me about the widow of Zarephath. She is an inspiring example of what can happen when I have faith in your Word and obey your commands. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “He Giveth More Grace” — Annie J. Flint. Meditation Verse: 1 Kings 17:24. |