Flour and Oil

In Flour and Oil, a widow’s empty jars became endless provision—showing how trust and generosity open the door for God’s turnaround.

“Elijah said to her, ‘Do not fear; go and do as you have said. But first make me a little cake of it and bring it to me, and afterward make something for yourself and your son.’”—1 Kings 17:13

The widow had only enough for one last meal for herself and her son—just a handful of flour and a little oil. But God intervened in a miraculous way.

The help came when Elijah appeared, unexpectedly. God had told this prophet that He had “commanded a widow there to feed [him]” (v. 9).

In spite of her poverty, Elijah asked her to bring him “a little water in a vessel, that I may drink” (v. 10). Then he asked for a piece of bread. This request seemed impossible. Yet Elijah told her, “Do not fear” (v. 13) because as she provided for him, God would supply for her.

God told her that, regardless of appearances, her flour “shall not be spent, and the jug of oil shall not be empty” until He sent rain (v. 14). The widow obeyed Elijah’s words, and God supernaturally provided for her. She, her son, and Elijah “ate for many days” (v. 15)—all because she placed God first and gave of her best to support God’s servant.

A blessing awaits those who follow the example of this widow and give to God, trusting in Him to multiply their offerings. God is ready to turn your situation around and bless you, that you might be a blessing to others (Genesis 12:2). Sow seeds with the resources He’s given you. Trust Him and seek His Kingdom first.

Reflection Question: Where is God asking you to trust Him with little?