Heroes: Devotions From Time of Grace MinistrySample

HUMILITY: THE WIDOW OF ZAREPHATH

Zarephath is a village outside of Israel, located in what is today the coastal country of Lebanon. A widow there was God's chosen agent for the preservation of his prophet Elijah during a time of severe drought in Israel. She had lost her husband and provider, and now she and her one son were themselves near starvation.

Elijah put her and her faith to a severe test: "Feed me first," he told her. "God will provide for you." She took a deep breath and agreed. Sure enough – her flour bin and oil jar were miraculously replenished each day, and the three had enough to eat.

Some time later her son died. In bitterness of spirit she feared that his death was a punishment for her past sins. Elijah assured her that no such punishing was going on and interceded with God to restore the boy's life.

Humbled and grateful, the widow exclaimed, "Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the LORD from your mouth is the truth" (1 Kings 17:24). I want to learn from this remarkable woman – to trust God's promises while danger still threatens and to give Him the glory when He sends relief.

Are there any unthanked gifts and miracles in your life?