Old Testament
1 Kings 17:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then he cried out to the LORD, "O LORD my God, have you also brought evil upon this widow who has taken me in, by slaying her son?"
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And he cried unto the LORD, and said, O LORD my God, hast thou also brought evil upon the widow with whom I sojourn, by slaying her son?
What 1 Kings 17:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, the prophet Elijah is deeply troubled. He has witnessed the widow's suffering, and now her son has died. Elijah turns to God, expressing his anguish and confusion. He questions why God would allow such tragedy to befall someone who has shown him kindness. This heartfelt cry reveals Elijah's connection to the widow and his concern for her well-being. It highlights the struggle between faith and despair, as he grapples with the idea of divine justice. Elijah's plea is not just for the boy's life but also for understanding the purpose behind this suffering. This moment captures the raw emotions of grief and the search for answers in times of crisis. It reminds us that even the faithful can experience doubt and sorrow, and that turning to God in our pain is a natural response. Elijah's honesty in prayer shows us the importance of expressing our feelings to God, even when we don't understand His ways. It’s a powerful reminder that God cares about our struggles and listens to our cries.
How to apply 1 Kings 17:20 to your life
When faced with suffering, it's natural to question why things happen. Like Elijah, we can bring our doubts and fears to God in prayer. Sharing our struggles with Him can lead to comfort and understanding. Remember, it's okay to express your feelings honestly. God is always listening and cares about your pain and questions.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Kings Summary
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Illustrated scene from Elijah's story: The Widow's Son Lives (1 Kings 17:17–24)
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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 17:20 mean?
1 Kings 17:20 captures Elijah's deep distress as he questions God about the death of the widow's son. It reflects his emotional turmoil and the struggle to understand why tragedy strikes those who show kindness.
What is the significance of Elijah's prayer in 1 Kings 17:20?
Elijah's prayer in 1 Kings 17:20 highlights the importance of bringing our doubts and pain to God. It shows that even prophets experience grief and confusion, emphasizing the human need for understanding in times of suffering.
How does 1 Kings 17:20 relate to faith and suffering?
1 Kings 17:20 illustrates the tension between faith and suffering, as Elijah questions God's actions in the face of tragedy. It serves as a reminder that questioning God in difficult times is a natural part of faith.
What can we learn from Elijah's response in 1 Kings 17:20?
Elijah's response teaches us the value of honest prayer during times of distress. It encourages us to express our feelings and seek understanding from God, reminding us that He cares about our struggles.
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