1 kings 17:16 - The jar of meal didn’t run out, and the jar of oil did not fail, according to Yahweh’s word, which he spoke by Elijah.

Generated Verse: 1 kings 17:16

What does "1 kings 17:16" mean?


This verse, 1 Kings 17:16, is the climax of a story about God's miraculous provision for a widow and Elijah during a severe drought. Let's break down its meaning:

"The jar of meal didn't run out...": This refers to the widow's small supply of flour. Despite her using it daily to bake for herself, her son, and Elijah, the jar remained miraculously full.
"...and the jar of oil did not fail...": Similarly, her oil supply, which was used for cooking, remained constant. It never depleted, despite being used regularly.
"...according to Yahweh's word, which he spoke by Elijah": This is the key. The miracle was not random luck; it was a direct result of God's promise through the prophet Elijah. Elijah had told the widow that her supplies would not run out until the drought ended (1 Kings 17:14).

Therefore, the verse signifies:

God's faithfulness and provision: God keeps his promises. He miraculously provided for those who trusted in him, even in the face of extreme hardship.
Elijah's prophetic authority: The miracle validated Elijah as a true prophet of God. His word carried divine power.
The widow's faith: The widow's willingness to share her last meal with Elijah demonstrated her faith in God, which led to the miraculous provision.
God's care for the vulnerable: The story highlights God's compassion for the widow and her son, who were in a desperate situation.

In essence, 1 Kings 17:16 is a powerful testament to God's ability to provide beyond our understanding, and to his faithfulness in fulfilling his word through his prophets, for those who trust in him. It underscores the importance of faith and obedience, even when circumstances seem impossible.