ME FIRST

READING: 1 KINGS 17:8-16 

Verse 13: “And Elijah said to her, ‘Do not fear; go and do as you have said, but make me a small cake from it first, and bring it to me...’”

This passage of scripture describes how the Lord used the prophet Elijah to save a widow and her son from starvation and in the process established a great testimony of God’s greatness. By divine  inspiration, Elijah told the widow to give him some of what seemed to be the last of her flour and oil. He demanded what stood between her and starvation. She obeyed and gave a portion of her last, but then she began to discover that the flour and oil were miraculously replenished as she used them. We remark about the woman’s faith to obey, but it also took faith for Elijah to take that portion of her food. Many people would have a problem doing what Elijah did if placed in his position. There would be guilt and resistance regarding such an action. Many would be hampered by what people would think of them. “Shame on the great prophet for taking some of a poor widow’s last food from her.” It’s often harder for us to receive than it is to give. However, this scripture demonstrates what God did through Elijah’s faithfulness to receive. He proved that, when done in obedience, receiving can be every bit as godly as giving. That’s a thought – about God’s Word.

RESPONSE

1. With which do you identify most, Elijah or the widow?

2. Have you been in a position where you were reluctant to receive?