Ahab is probably the most notorious king Israel had and his idolatry is confronted by the prophet Elijah who announces a drought in judgment (v1).

Elijah goes first to the brook Cherith to the east of the Jordan to be safe from Ahab (v2-7). There Elijah is sustained by the water from the brook and bread brought by ravens. God is able to sustain his servants wonderfully.

Next Elijah is sent to Zarephath in Sidon which was the home country of Queen Jezebel (v8-9). In this fascinating story of the widow we see her tested to trust in the Lord’s provision by giving her last to Elijah (v10-16). Miraculously during Elijah stay her jar of flour and jug of oil do not run out. We have and mazing God who is able to provide wonderfully when we trust.

The widow’s son takes ill and dies. Elijah is used to bring the boy gloriously back to life (v17-24). We see here the power and wonder of grace. Why was this foreign woman chosen for such gracious intervention? All of grace!