ElijahSample

Elijah raises the widow's son

The widow’s son fell sick and died. In response, Elijah took the boy to his room, laid him on the bed, and fervently prayed. While prayer is often viewed as secondary to ministry, Oswald Chambers wisely stated, ‘Prayer is not preparation for the great work. Prayer is the great work!’ Through prayer, individuals are saved, relationships reconciled, and nations healed; it’s our means to access God’s power and fulfil His work.

In 1 Kings 17, Elijah exemplifies intercessory prayer when he cries out to God for the widow’s dying son: ‘O Lord my God, I pray, let this child’s soul come back to him’ (1 Kings 17:21). Miraculously, God answered Elijah’s prayer, reviving the child. This event highlights the power of prayer and God’s ability to breathe life into hopeless situations. Elijah’s prayer was crucial for the boy’s healing, but the mother’s faith in allowing Elijah to intercede was equally significant. This miraculous revival serves as a powerful reminder that the same God who raised the boy is still at work today. It teaches us to persist in prayer, even when circumstances seem beyond our control. When we bring our deepest hurts to God, He listens and responds according to His will, restoring hope.

No matter your struggles, God is always ready to hear your prayers. Just as Elijah’s plea brought life to a desperate situation, your prayers can usher in healing and restoration. Trust in God, keep praying, and watch His miracles unfold.

Written by HEIDI WYSMAN