Old Testament
1 Kings 17:14
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Because this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'The jar of flour will not run out, and the jug of oil will not run dry, until the day the LORD sends rain on the land.'
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For thus saith the LORD God of Israel, The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day that the LORD sendeth rain upon the earth.
What 1 Kings 17:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God speaks to a widow during a time of severe drought and famine. He promises her that her supply of flour and oil will not run out, even though it seems impossible. This assurance comes with a condition: it will last until God sends rain to the land. The widow, facing dire circumstances, is encouraged to trust in God's provision. This moment highlights the theme of faith in the face of scarcity. It shows that even when resources seem limited, God can provide abundantly. The widow's willingness to believe in this promise leads to a miraculous outcome. Her story reminds us that faith can lead to unexpected blessings, even in tough times. Trusting in God's word can transform our situations and provide hope when we feel hopeless. This passage encourages us to look beyond our immediate challenges and believe in the possibilities that faith can bring into our lives. It’s a powerful reminder that God cares for our needs and can sustain us through difficult seasons.
How to apply 1 Kings 17:14 to your life
When facing challenges, remember that God can provide for you in unexpected ways. Trusting in His promises can bring hope and encouragement. Look for opportunities to exercise your faith, even when circumstances seem dire. God is always aware of your needs and can sustain you through tough times. Stay open to His guidance and provision in your life. “Trust in God’s timing and His ability to provide.” “Believe in the possibilities that faith can bring.”
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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Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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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 17:14 mean?
1 Kings 17:14 conveys God's promise to a widow during a drought, assuring her that her flour and oil will not run out until rain returns. This illustrates God's provision in desperate times and encourages faith in His ability to sustain.
What is the significance of the jar of flour and jug of oil in 1 Kings 17:14?
The jar of flour and jug of oil symbolize God's miraculous provision. They represent how, even in scarcity, God can provide abundantly for our needs when we trust in Him.
How does 1 Kings 17:14 relate to faith?
1 Kings 17:14 emphasizes the importance of faith by showing that the widow had to trust God's promise despite her dire situation. Her belief led to a miraculous outcome, demonstrating that faith can bring hope and provision.
What can we learn from 1 Kings 17:14?
From 1 Kings 17:14, we learn that God is aware of our needs and can provide for us in unexpected ways. It encourages us to trust in God's promises and remain hopeful even during challenging times.
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