Preparing for Power Part 2Sampel

Will You Run Toward God in Times of Adversity?

Elijah watched the miracle of ravens providing him food in the wilderness. Elijah and the widow watched God resupply the oil and the flour in abundance. And now, God is going to bring the widow’s son back from the dead.

But first, the widow asks Elijah, “What have you against me, O man of God? You have come to me to bring my sin to remembrance and to cause the death of my son!” 1 Kings 17:18 ESV

And Elijah asks God, “O LORD my God, have you brought calamity even upon the widow with whom I sojourn, by killing her son?” 1 Kings 17:20 ESV

And then Elijah does the strangest thing and stretches himself out over the boy three times. What?!

Scholars debate the meaning of this, but some interpret this in light of John 21:18. In that passage, Jesus was predicting how Peter would die. He would die by crucifixion. His body would be “stretched out” on a cross. So, here we see the woman looking to God and asking—is my son paying for my sin? And God looks back and says no—your son can’t pay for your sin. My Son is going to pay for your sins. My Son is going to stretch out on a Cross. My Son is going to descend to death—and stretch out and cry out. My Son, not yours, will die as payment for your sin.

And here in the Old Testament, Elijah cries out, and God instructs Elijah to stretch himself over the boy as a bit of a preview of the Cross and the mighty power of God, even over sin and death. And the boy was saved, brought to life.

Ask Yourself:

• Where have you been looking for “salvation” from hard and painful circumstances?
• How does this story stir your faith?
• How do you see God’s power at work around you? (e.g., acts of love and mercy, physical healing, hard hearts softened, etc.)

Pause to Pray: God, You are mighty to save! Forgive me for relying on my own strength rather than Your power.

Take a Next Step: Share where you see God’s power at work with someone. Encourage their faith!