JULY 12, 1 Kings 17:17-18 

Disaster suddenly struck in the widow’s home. Her son fell sick and died. The widow was so grieved that she forgot how God had blessed them with food that had sustained them so far. She began to blame Elijah for her son’s death. Her husband died, she was plagued with poverty, and now her only real love and possession in the world – her son – has died!

The widow at Zarephath thought her son’s death was a punishment from God because Elijah’s presence had reminded God of her sins. Being a Gentile (a non-Jew), this womanof faith did not know God’s Word well. God disciplines His children but punishes only those who ignore His warnings and willfully or purposely continue to sin by worshipping idols. She did not know that God was not punishing her, and has a very good purpose for her son’s death.

Elijah was thus far respected by the widow. Now he suffered blame from her. It was a test of his faith. Elijah did not let his feelings distract him. He continued to exercise his faith. He prayed earnestly and a miracle happened.

How did Elijah raise the dead son of the widow? Read 1 Kings 17: 21.

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Thought: The prayers of a faithful man achieve much.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, may I seek Thee in prayer whenever I face a problem. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.