“As the Lord God of Israel lives, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but according to my word.” 1 Kings 17:1
Dear Ones:
If one should visit Geneva, Switzerland, they would find what is called, “The Wall Of The Reformation.” It is a large monument, with four prominent figures cut in stone, which are each about twelve feet high. These figures represent four men whose devotion to God, and God’s corresponding blessing, literally changed the world. The figures each hold in their hands a Bible. Why? The Bible was for them, not just some literary work, or religious book. It was the inspired word of the Eternal God, wherein is revealed the testimony of His Person, and Power, to save men from their lost condition, and guarantee for them eternal life. These men, along with countless others, staked their lives, and eternity, on the truths of God revealed in that book.
Throughout Scripture we find that God is speaking to individuals, nations, and even nature. The effect of “the word of God” is always significant, for by His words He works, and reveals Himself to man. Such was the case in the life of Elijah, just after he had informed Ahab of the coming drought which was to last for three years. It is at this point that Scripture declares: “And the word of the Lord came unto him (Elijah), saying, ‘Get away from here and turn eastward, and hide by the brook Cherith.” (1 Kings 17:3) God goes on to tell Elijah, “And it will be that you shall drink from the brook, and I have commanded the ravens to feed you there.” (v.4) This God, who did speak the creation into being, speaks quietly to His servant, Elijah, concerning where he is to hide from Ahab. He speaks also of His provision for him, water to drink from the stream, and bread and meat brought by ravens. It is noteworthy that the ravens respond to the commandment of God, His words. Even creation can hear His voice, for He makes it to hear.
There will come a day, because of the drought in the land, that the brook Cherith will dry up. We do not see Elijah frantically looking for water. As he waits on God, again God speaks, this time telling him to go to Zeraphath to dwell. The Lord also tells Elijah, “See, I have commanded a widow there to provide for you.” (v.9) In the meeting between Elijah and the widow, we find that she already knew who Elijah was, for she will say to him: “…As the Lord YOUR God lives…” (v.12) As Elijah consistently obeyed the word of the Lord, so will this widow. In this matter there is no difference, for both are called upon to live and walk by faith. With the commandment to this widow who is poor, helpless, with an only son, and facing starvation, comes a promise of provision, as it was with Elijah: “For thus says the Lord God of Israel: ‘The bin of flour shall not be used up, nor shall the jar of oil run dry, until the day the Lord sends rain on the earth.'” (v.14) What is the common thread of truth that we discover throughout this narrative? The first thing to see is that God always speaks in wisdom, and with perfect knowledge of the situation. Secondly, His word is clear, and simple to understand. Thirdly, the commandment either to Elijah or the widow, requires faith and selfless commitment to obey it. And lastly, with the commandment comes also a promise to be believed. Regardless of one’s status in life, whether “prophet” or “widow, ” all are called upon to respond to the overtures of Christ to their hearts according to His word, and believe Him for the full realization of the promises.
Dear Father, give us grace to respond in faith today to Your commandments and promises, certain of the fact that when You speak, it is always with an eternal purpose for Your glory. We praise and thank You, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Love, Dad