1 Kings 19:6

And he looked, and, behold, [there was] a cake baken on the coals, and a cruse of water at his head. And he did eat and drink, and laid him down again.

And he looked {H5027}, and, behold, there was a cake {H5692} baken on the coals {H7529}, and a cruse {H6835} of water {H4325} at his head {H4763}. And he did eat {H398} and drink {H8354}, and laid him down {H7901} again {H7725}.

He looked, and there by his head was a cake baked on the hot stones and a jug of water. He ate and drank, then lay down again.

And he looked around, and there by his head was a cake of bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. So he ate and drank and lay down again.

And he looked, and, behold, there was at his head a cake baken on the coals, and a cruse of water. And he did eat and drink, and laid him down again.

Commentary

1 Kings 19:6 describes a pivotal moment in the life of the prophet Elijah, showcasing God's tender care and miraculous provision for His servant during a period of profound despair and exhaustion.

Context

This verse immediately follows Elijah's dramatic confrontation and victory over the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. Despite this incredible spiritual triumph, Elijah was then threatened by Queen Jezebel and fled into the wilderness, reaching a point of deep despondency where he wished for death (1 Kings 19:4). While he slept under a juniper tree, an angel of the Lord touched him and instructed him to eat, setting the stage for the divine provision detailed in this verse (1 Kings 19:5).

Key Themes

  • Divine Provision: The verse powerfully illustrates God's direct and miraculous provision for His servant's most basic physical needs. Even in the desolate wilderness, and in Elijah's state of utter helplessness, God ensures he has sustenance. This highlights God's attentiveness to every detail of our lives, especially in moments of weakness.
  • Care in Despair: God does not rebuke Elijah for his fear or despair. Instead, He responds with practical, tangible care, providing food and rest. This demonstrates God's compassion for those experiencing burnout, depression, or fear, showing that His restoration often begins with meeting fundamental physical and emotional needs.
  • Preparation for Future Service: The simple act of eating, drinking, and resting was crucial for Elijah's recovery. This physical sustenance was not an end in itself but prepared him for the long journey ahead to Mount Horeb, where God would reveal Himself and give him new instructions (1 Kings 19:7).

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "a cake baken on the coals" refers to a simple, unleavened bread, quickly cooked over hot embers or stones. This was basic, essential nourishment, perfectly suited for immediate energy. The "cruse of water" indicates a small jar or pitcher, providing a vital source of hydration in the dry wilderness. The simplicity and immediacy of these provisions underscore God's direct and practical intervention to meet Elijah's fundamental needs, without any extravagance.

Practical Application

This passage offers profound encouragement. It reminds us that even the strongest spiritual leaders can face moments of extreme exhaustion and despair. In such times, God does not abandon us but often provides for our needs in unexpected ways. It teaches us that sometimes, the most spiritual thing we can do is attend to our physical well-being—rest, nourishment, and self-care—trusting that God uses these to restore us. Just as God sustained Elijah, He remains faithful to provide for our needs, enabling us to continue our journey of faith.

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Cross-References

  • Matthew 4:11 (3 votes)

    Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.

  • 1 Kings 17:6 (3 votes)

    And the ravens brought him bread and flesh in the morning, and bread and flesh in the evening; and he drank of the brook.

  • Isaiah 33:16 (2 votes)

    He shall dwell on high: his place of defence [shall be] the munitions of rocks: bread shall be given him; his waters [shall be] sure.

  • 1 Kings 17:9 (2 votes)

    Arise, get thee to Zarephath, which [belongeth] to Zidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee.

  • 1 Kings 17:15 (2 votes)

    And she went and did according to the saying of Elijah: and she, and he, and her house, did eat [many] days.

  • John 21:5 (2 votes)

    Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No.

  • Matthew 6:32 (2 votes)

    (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.