The Widow’s Oil
A poor widow cried out
To Elisha one day,
“Your servant, my husband
Has died. I cannot pay.
“He exalted the Lord,
And he loyally served.
Now his creditor comes.
Our fate is undeserved.
“He is coming to take
My two sons, each a slave.”
Elisha said to her,
“How can I help to save?
“Tell me, what do you have
As you work and toil?”
The widow had nothing,
Except a little oil.
Elisha said, “Go look.
Empty jars you will need.
Ask neighbors all around;
For many you must plead.
“Then go inside your house.
Shut the door behind you.
Pour oil into the jars.
Fill them all, not a few.”
She left Elisha there;
Shut the door with each son.
Brought out the jars and poured,
Each one full, overrun.
When not a jar was left,
The flow of oil ended.
She went and told God’s man.
He said, “That is splendid.
“Go sell the oil and pay
All the debts that you owe.
You and your sons can live;
Security you’ll know.”
This story is to teach
That God takes care of us.
Multiplies when we obey;
He loves our faith and trust.
(Based on 2 Kings 4:1-7)
What joy you receive when you serve others. This poor widow cried out to Elisha for help. Her husband died leaving her with debts she could not pay and they were coming to take her sons. With the guidance of Elisha and the neighbors who gave her jars, she miraculously filled them all with oil and could pay her debts.
“Blessed to be a Blessing” is a powerful statement. God blesses people with gifts and talents, and people should use them to serve others. When we are a blessing to others, God is pleased. How has God blessed you? Reflect on your unique talents, skills, and strengths. What can you offer to others that would truly make a difference?
Make Me a Blessing
Out in the highways and byways of life,
many are weary and sad;
Carry the sunshine where darkness is rife
making the sorrowing glad.
Make me a blessing,
Make me a blessing,
Out of my life
May Jesus shine;
Make me a blessing, O savior, I pray,
Make me a blessing to someone today.
Tell the sweet story of Christ and His love;
Tell of His pow'r to forgive;
Others will trust Him if only you prove
true ev'ry moment you live.
Make me a blessing,
Make me a blessing,
Out of my life
May Jesus shine;
Make me a blessing, O savior, I pray,
Make me a blessing to someone today.
Give as 'twas given to you in your need;
Love as the Master loved you;
Be to the helpless a helper indeed;
Unto your mission be true.
Make me a blessing,
Make me a blessing,
Out of my life
May Jesus shine;
Make me a blessing, O savior, I pray,
Make me a blessing to someone today.
