The Power of a Holy Life: Lessons from Elijah
Verses:1 Kings 17:19, 23-24
"And he said to her, ‘Give me your son.’ And he took him from her arms and carried him up into the upper chamber where he lodged, and laid him on his own bed. ... And Elijah took the child and brought him down from the upper chamber into the house and delivered him to his mother. And Elijah said, ‘See, your son lives.’ And the woman said to Elijah, ‘Now I know that you are a man of God, and that the word of the Lord in your mouth is truth.’"
Elijah, the prophet of God, was a man whose life radiated holiness. His unwavering commitment to God’s calling and his integrity in daily living were evident to all who encountered him. When he sought refuge with the widow of Zarephath during a time of famine, it was his holy life that opened the door for him to dwell under her roof. The widow, though initially hesitant, recognized something extraordinary in Elijah—a life set apart for God. This recognition was not based on mere words but on the undeniable evidence of his character and conduct.
Elijah’s holiness was not just a personal virtue; it was a testimony to the power of God at work in him. He lived with the widow and her son, likely sharing the same humble space, yet his presence brought no scandal or reproach. Instead, it brought life. When the widow’s son fell ill and died, Elijah’s faith and holy audacity moved him to cry out to God. He prayed with such fervor and confidence that God heard him and raised the boy from the dead. This miracle was not just a sign of God’s power but a divine accreditation of Elijah’s holy life. It confirmed to the widow that Elijah was indeed a man of God, and his words were true.
Holiness is not an abstract concept; it is a practical, lived-out reality. Elijah’s life demonstrates that holiness is essential for anyone on God’s errand. He was completely surrendered to God’s will, spiritually minded, and aware that he was under divine protection and provision. His holiness was not a facade but a deep, abiding commitment to God that shaped every aspect of his life. This is why the widow trusted him, and this is why God used him so powerfully.
In contrast, David and Solomon were called to be kings—a role that inherently involved luxury, wealth, and worldly responsibilities. While God certainly desired holiness in their lives as well, their calling was different from Elijah’s. David, though a man after God’s own heart, fell into sin with Bathsheba, and Solomon, despite his wisdom, allowed idolatry to infiltrate his kingdom. Their lives remind us that even those chosen by God must guard their hearts diligently, but their calling did not demand the same level of separation and singular focus as Elijah’s.
Elijah’s mission was distinct. He was not a king but a servant of God with a special purpose—a man wholly dedicated to God’s holy work. His life was marked by a consistent pursuit of holiness, which became the foundation of his prophetic ministry. For those of us called to similar missions today—whether as ministers, missionaries, or servants of God in any capacity—Elijah’s example is a powerful reminder that holiness is not optional. It is the hallmark of a life surrendered to God.
The historical details of Elijah’s stay with the widow—such as the size of her house or their living arrangements—may be unclear, but the central theme remains intact: a holy life is a powerful testimony. Elijah’s boldness in prayer and his unwavering faith were direct results of the holy life he lived. He knew that God would honor His word and act on behalf of those who walk in integrity.
If you are a worker for God, this truth is imperative: holiness is not optional. It is the hallmark of a life surrendered to God. Whether you are a prophet, a teacher, a parent, or a friend, your holiness will speak louder than your words. It will open doors, build trust, and bring glory to God. Just as Elijah’s holy life led to the miraculous restoration of the widow’s son, your commitment to holiness can lead to God’s power being displayed in extraordinary ways.
Prayer:
Lord, help us to live lives of holiness, set apart for Your purpose. Teach us to walk in integrity and faith, just as Elijah did. May our lives be a testimony to Your power and grace, opening doors for Your work to be done. Strengthen us to remain steadfast in our commitment to You, even when the world around us is filled with compromise. Use us, Lord, as vessels of Your truth and love, and may our holy lives bring glory to Your name. Amen.