Old Testament
1 Kings 17:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
So Elijah got up and traveled to Zarephath. When he arrived at the town gate, he saw a widow gathering sticks. He called out to her, "Please, could you bring me a little water in a jar so I can have a drink?"
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So he arose and went to Zarephath. And when he came to the gate of the city, behold, the widow woman was there gathering of sticks: and he called to her, and said, Fetch me, I pray thee, a little water in a vessel, that I may drink.
What 1 Kings 17:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Elijah, a prophet, is on a mission during a severe drought. He arrives in Zarephath, a town where he encounters a widow. She is gathering sticks, likely to prepare a fire for cooking. Elijah asks her for a drink of water, which seems like a simple request. However, this encounter is significant because it shows how God often uses unexpected people to fulfill His plans. The widow, despite her own struggles, is approached by Elijah, who represents hope and provision. This interaction highlights the importance of kindness and generosity, even in difficult times. It also sets the stage for a miraculous event that will change both their lives. Through this story, we see how faith can lead to unexpected blessings and how God provides for those in need, often through the hands of others. This moment is a reminder that help can come from the most unlikely sources, and that we should be open to receiving and giving help in our lives, no matter our circumstances.
How to apply 1 Kings 17:10 to your life
When you face challenges, remember that help can come from unexpected places. Be open to receiving support from others, and also be willing to offer assistance, even when you feel you have little to give. Your kindness can make a significant difference in someone else's life, just as Elijah's request did for the widow. Embrace opportunities to connect and uplift one another in tough times, as this can lead to remarkable outcomes.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Kings Summary
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Illustrated scene from Elijah's story: The Widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17:8–16)
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Elijah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of 1 Kings
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Kings 17:10 mean?
1 Kings 17:10 describes the moment when the prophet Elijah arrives in Zarephath during a drought and encounters a widow gathering sticks. He asks her for water, highlighting themes of faith and God's provision through unexpected sources.
What is the significance of the widow in 1 Kings 17:10?
The widow in 1 Kings 17:10 represents someone in need, yet she is approached by Elijah, symbolizing how God can use those who are struggling to fulfill His plans. Her willingness to help Elijah, despite her own hardships, illustrates the importance of kindness and generosity.
What does Elijah ask the widow for in 1 Kings 17:10?
In 1 Kings 17:10, Elijah asks the widow for a little water in a jar so he can have a drink. This request, though simple, sets the stage for a significant interaction that leads to miraculous events.
How does 1 Kings 17:10 relate to the theme of kindness?
1 Kings 17:10 highlights the theme of kindness by showing Elijah's request for help from the widow, who, despite her own struggles, is called to assist him. This interaction underscores the importance of being open to giving and receiving help in challenging times.
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