Elisha miraculously provided oil for the poor widow (2 Kings 4:1–44)

The miracle of Elisha providing oil for the poor widow is found in 2 Kings 4:1–44. Her husband was dead. The creditor had come to take her children as slaves. All she had left was a jar of olive oil. Elisha told her to get empty vessels from her neigbours. SHe was then told to go inside her house and fill all the jars. They filled all the vessels until there was none left. She then told Elisha that all the jars she had were filled. He then said that she should go and sell the oil and pay her debt. She could live on the rest of money after the debts were taken care of.


This miracle shows that God can do wonderful things through his prophets. It is the power of God that allowed Elisha to help the woman. The woman believed in the power of God and accepted Elisha as his servant. God turned a small amount into a lot and provided for the widow and her sons. If we are faithful as the widow, God can also work miracles in our lives.

1.  God provided Israel with a land flowing with milk and honey (Deut. 9:6).

2.  God gives the ability to make money (Deut. 8:18).  (Deut. 8:11ff reminds Israel that God provided them water and manna and the power to make wealth.)

3.  He blesses with rain and fruitful seasons (Acts 14:17).

E.  Thankfulness is the appropriate response.