READ: 1 Kin. 17:22-24: … Now by this I know that you are a man of God, and that the word of the LORD in your mouth is the truth.
A miracle happens in response to Elijah’s prayer. It is written in verse 22: “And the LORD listened to the voice of Elijah.” At this faithful prayer of God’s servant, who leans on God’s promises, the child comes back to life.
The Lord also asks us now for a faithful prayer, especially in difficult situations where He tests us to see if we continue to cling to His promises and keep our hope in Him. This is the case in crises of financial need, physical trials, spiritual pressure, or church struggles. Our prayer, speech, and actions may be weak in themselves, but God will give them strength through His Word and Spirit.
When Elijah sees that life has returned to the child, he takes the child, carries him downstairs, and gives him to his mother. An incredibly great miracle of God’s re-creating power has taken place. “See, your son lives,” he says in response to the mother’s previous reproach: “What have I to do with you, O man of God?”
Elijah shows how much a faithful prayer can accomplish (James 5:16). God can respond to the prayer of a righteous person with a miracle never seen before.
In the face of unexpected events, let us not ask: “why, LORD?” but rather ask: “for what purpose, LORD?” For what purpose have You arranged and guided this so? In this case, the LORD wants to make clear to the widow that He not only wants to do what He has promised but can and will do what He promises.
It is proof that God is almighty and faithful. The widow comes to that acknowledgment in the words of verse 24. The purpose of this is that God is praised, served, and honored.
What this pagan widow confesses is shameful for Israel. For how many proofs of God’s grace, power, and faithfulness has His people not received!
Let us use this history to strengthen our faith and hope. God’s Word is true and reliable!
Is it permissible to pray for the recovery from a “deadly” illness?
Sing: Ps. 66:4