1 Kings 17:10-16

The Barrel of Meal.

In the East the people kept their corn in earthen jars to protect it from insects which swarm in the heat of the sun. What in our translation is called a "barrel" ( כד ) was one of these vessels. The store in this case was run low; there was but a "handful" left; yet this was so multiplied by the power of God that three persons found at least in it sufficient provision for two and a half years. Let us inquire—

I. HOW ITS CONDITION BECAME KNOWN .

1 . Elijah came to Zarephath in quest of the widow .

2 . He found her at the gate of the city .

3 . He readily identified her .

II. HOW ITS RESOURCES WERE MAINTAINED .

1 . By the miracle-working power of God .

2 . Through the faith of the widow .