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1 Kings-18

Feeding the Hungry: A Devotional Study on 1 Kings 18​

Introduction​

In 1 Kings 18, we see a powerful illustration of the divine provision of God. Elijah, prophet of the Lord, challenges the idol-worshipping nation of Israel to a showdown between the true God and the false god, Baal. As we dive into this captivating narrative, let’s reflect on the ways in which we too can trust in God’s provision.

Section 1: The Spiritual Drought (1 Kings 17:1-6)​

Devotional Thought: As we begin this chapter, we find Elijah in the midst of a spiritual drought. The nation of Israel, disobedient to God, has not received rain for three years, leading to famine in the land. Nonetheless, God continues to provide for Elijah, highlighting His faithfulness even in seasons of drought. Let’s trust in God’s faithful provision, even in times of spiritual famine.

Reflection Questions:

  • In what ways do you see spiritual droughts in your own life?
  • How can you rely on God's faithful provision, even in lean seasons?

Section 2: The Challenge (1 Kings 18:1-24)​

Devotional Thought: Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal to a test of divine power. Both sides prepare for the consumption test and Elijah’s decision to have the people fill up four barrels of water shows God’s generosity and extravagance in provision. Hear the reminder today that God provides beyond our ask.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you see the generous provision of God in your life right now?
  • In what ways do you discern what God is providing, beyond the physical?

Section 3: The Compassionate Deed (1 Kings 18:25-40)​

Devotional Thought: Elijah's compassionate act in this section moves our hearts and teaches us about God's compassionate provision. Elijah commands his servant to provide bread and water to a starving widow, demonstrating that God cares for the global need for provision, in addition to our immediate needs. Let’s cultivate selfless and compassionate deeds, like Elijah, reflecting God’s provision towards humanity.

Reflection Questions:

  • In what ways did you see God's provision move through Elijah's act of compassion?
  • In what tangible ways can you show compassion towards human need, reflecting God's provision?

Section 4: The God Who Provides (1 Kings 18:41-46)​

Devotional Thought: Elijah's prayer for rain reverberates through the earth, and the long-awaited rain falls. This miraculous provision shows that God is the ultimate provider. Let’s continue to trust in the God who provides, in both the drought and the rainstorm.

Reflection Questions:

  • What lessons can you draw from Elijah’s prayer for rain, amidst spiritual droughts?
  • How can you continue to trust God's provision, whether in abundance or scarcity?

Conclusion:​

1 Kings 18 offers us a vivid illustration of God's provision, both physical and spiritual. As we reflect on this chapter devotionally, we see Elijah's trust in God’s provision even in drought and famine (1 Kings 17:7); God's generosity in provisioning a meal for Elijah (1 Kings 17:6-9); Elijah's selfless act of compassion towards a needy widow (1 Kings 17:8-24) and Elijah's trust in God's provision, reflected in his prayer for rain (1 Kings 18:41-46). May we persevere in relying on God's faithfulness in provision, just as Elijah did.