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ELIJAH AT ZAREPHATH

JULY 8, 1 Kings 17:8-10

 

 

As tthe drought lasted for 3 years and 6 months, the water in the brook Cherith also gradually dried up. Perhaps we will not be able to fully understand that for we have never experienced a drought. A drought often results in famine and death. However, without a doubt, God continued to care for Elijah. This time, God directed him to Zarephath at Zidon. This town is on the coast and all the way to the west of Israel. It is also the place where Jezebel, king Ahab’s wife, came from.

 

Imagine that! Needless to say, Zarephath was a pagan place full of idols. Yet God sent Elijah there. If that was not surprising enough, God said that He had commanded a widow to provide food and lodging for him. Widows were the poorest people because they had no husbands to provide for them. Guess what? The Bible said, “So, he arose and went to Zarephath.” Elijah did not hesitate. As soon as he heard God, he obeyed. He never questioned God. Very often, we think we know better than God. We don’t even care to pray or seek God’s help or direction when we face trouble. We often rely on our own wisdom. There is much to learn from Elijah.

 

As Elijah approached the gate of the city, he met the widow gathering sticks. God’s timing is always perfect. When God calls someone to do His work, He will have a perfect plan for him. He will lead and guide his every step.

 

What did Elijah ask the widow to do?

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Thought: God will guide me all the way if I ask Him to. All I have to do is follow.

 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to seek Thy will for my life always and help me to obey Thee faithfully. Guide me each step of the way. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.