After some time, however, the wadi ran dry, because no rain had fallen in the land. So the word of the LORD came to him: Arise, go to Zarephath of Sidon and stay there. I have commanded a widow there to feed you.
1 Kings 17:7-9

The prophet Elijah is proclaiming God’s goodness in Israel, but the Israelites continue to turn away from him. At the time of this story, they are experiencing a three-year drought. God then tells Elijah to go to the town of Sidon to be provided for by a poor widow.

This passage emphasizes how God sometimes provides for us with things or people we might never expect. He helps us in ways that go beyond our narrow perspective. No matter how dire or hopeless our circumstances might be, we are to keep looking for God’s loving care. There are no difficulties we can’t overcome with his help.

Has there ever been a time in your life that you received unexpected help when you really needed it? Or were you ever moved to help out another, and didn’t understand where that desire came from? This week, look for opportunities to help people in unexpected ways. Ask God to use you to show his grace and mercy wherever you go.