Little kids playing with a bunch of toys inevitably shift from “playing nicely” to conflict. We hear them whine, “Mine! Mine!” As adults, we are much more sophisticated in our ownership pursuits. There’s so much Jehovah Jireh (God Provider) wants to show us, guiding us toward freedom from “stuff” and honoring Him as the Giver. In one, single, Old Testament chapter, God demonstrates two stunning ways He provides. You’re going to love this story about birds and a widow and how you can trust in God, Jehovah Jireh.
About the Message
Read about the spiritual pollution King Ahab brought to God’s people and pay attention to the audacity of the new prophet in facing off against the king in I Kings 16:29 – 17:1.
Discover how meat-eating birds became caterers to our prophet in I Kings 17:2-6
Marvel as Jehovah Jireh uses a Gentile, widowed mom who is well down the road to starvation, to provide for Elijah in I Kings 17:7-16
Go Deeper Questions
How did Elijah benefit from the events of this passage?
How did the widow benefit from her interaction with the prophet?
To combat a “Mine! Mine!” attitude, read the following three passages. Contrast these truths with the world’s message. Then, consider the personal implications in your attitude about ownership, stewardship, and giving.
- Deuteronomy 8:17 – 18
- I Chronicles 29:10-13
- 2 Corinthians 9:11