Foundations Week 21, Day 1

Scripture Read: 1 Kings 16:29-34; 17
Title: The Prophet Elijah
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H.E.A.R. Entry
(H) Highlight verse:  "Then the woman said to Elijah, 'Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the LORD in your mouth is truth."  1 Kings 17:24

(E) Explain:  Elijah was a prophet who passionately followed God.  He was a man of prayer, faith and obedience.  In todays passage we are introduced to Elijah as a man who displayed all three of the characteristics mentioned above.  In this chapter we are introduced to Elijah as he will be "playing" a major role in the next few chapters.  He passionately followed God through his life and left a legacy that shows that He was truly a man who was obedient to God.  
 
In this account Elijah predicts a three year draught in the land of Israel.  He spoke this prophecy to King Ahab and upon telling him the LORD told him to go east and hide near the brook Cherith.  It was at this brook that the LORD would provide food and water for him during this draught.  Once the brook dried up Elijah was told by God to go to Zarephath and meet up with a widow who would provide for him.  Upon meeting this widow God provided miraculously food and water for Elijah, the widow and her son.  During this time the son fell sick and died.  Elijah prayed to God  and the LORD brought  the child back to life.  After this miracle the widow acknowledged that Elijah was a man of God and one who speaks the truth.

(A) Application: :  This passage is a great reminder for me in my life right now.  The lesson learned in this is God always takes care of His children.  The draught that Israel experienced was a result of their sin, but God still provided for those who remained faithful to him.  This still applies today.  I am sure that there were days when both Elijah and the widow wondered if the flower or water would run out, but it never did.  Elijah and the widow had to live by faith and trust in God's provisions.  This is a lesson that I am continually learning.  I am thankful God continually provides for me and I pray that as he does continue to provide that my faith can be strengthened daily.

(R) Respond: LORD, help me to not be anxious about tomorrow or the day after.  You have proveded for today and that is all I need.  Help my faith to grow everyday as I see your faithfulness continually day after day.