Introduction
In the middle of an intense drought, a poor widow was gathering sticks at the gate of Zarephath. In a very real way, she was feeling the pain, suffering, and negative effects of a drought brought about by the unrighteous actions of another. She was not at fault here. It was the wickedness of King Ahab that had brought the drought upon the people, and yet she suffered as a result. Hungry and weary and with only a handful of meal and a little oil in a cruse she was preparing her final meal for herself and her son, and then they would both die.
In this desperate, heart-wrenching scene it is difficult for your own heart not to go out with love and compassion for the plight of this faithful widow. From every angle, her future seemed hopeless. Perhaps you see her in your mind. Perhaps you have witnessed others like her.
At this moment, Elijah the prophet, directed by God, enters this bleak situation. Surely the Lord is about to perform through the prophet a ‘loaves and fishes’ experience. Surely a God of love looking down with compassion would see her need and relieve her suffering.
And yet, we find that in her need rather than immediately multiplying her tiny supply of food the prophet calls to her and says, “Fetch me, I pray thee, a little water in a vessel, that I may drink.” [1] And then seemingly oblivious to her plight he called again, “Bring me, I pray thee, a morsel of bread in thine hand.” [2]
As if to help him see her situation a little further she explains that she was in the act of making her final meal. To which Elijah responds: “Fear not, go and do as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after make for thee and for thy son.” [3]
And then a prophetic promise follows: “For thus saith the LORD God of Israel, The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day that the LORD sendeth rain upon the earth.” [4]
What a promise. It is only now that we begin to understand that the prophet Elijah clearly sees something that others could not.
In a remarkable act of faith and trust in the Lord, the scriptures record a simple but powerful response: “she went and did.” [5] How thankful I am for the scriptural accounts of individuals, like this poor widow from Zarephath, whose name we do not even know. Somehow, in suffocating drought conditions and literally on death’s doorstep, she chose to act on the invitation of a prophet and courageously handed her life over to God.
With this scriptural account in your minds, I wish to speak to those who feel their faith is currently the size of a handful of meal. Perhaps you have faced a spiritual drought and are pleading for a ‘loaves and fishes’ experience. Today I want to offer four key messages that I believe can help us navigate these droughts and, like the widow, nourish our souls and fill our spiritual barrels.
1. Hand Your Life Over to God and Let Him Multiply Your Simple Offerings
While the story of Elijah and the widow can be seen as one of extreme sacrifice, I see it as a beautiful witness of how God transforms a willing soul. By asking for this last meal, it would appear Elijah was taking everything from a starving widow. In reality, he was offering her a way to bind herself to the life-giving source of Jesus Christ. He was teaching her that when we put God first, His accounting is very different from ours. Somehow our simple offering provides miraculous returns, or in His words, 'out of small things proceedeth that which is great'. [6]
In 2003, having returned home from my mission, I married my wife, Karen. During the early stages of our marriage, we committed to take every opportunity to serve. We became temple workers and accepted callings that stretched us. Life was overwhelming but it was fulfilling. We were anchored in Jesus Christ, found joy in serving Him, and navigating the ‘droughts’ around us.
Then one night there was an experience where God taught me a powerful lesson about my relationship with Him.
Karen had just experienced a challenging birth and had been unable to walk for a couple of months. I was juggling work, a stretching calling, and university assignments. It was 10 p.m., and I was stressed about an assignment due the next day. Then the phone rang. A sister from the ward was at her breaking point and pleaded for a blessing. I looked at Karen seeking her approval, and she simply looked at me and nodded, as if to say, "Asa, go, please you are needed."
As I hung up, an overwhelming weight came over me. I was exhausted and felt I had nothing. With a gentle nudge, Karen suggested we pray. Lying in bed, unable to walk, she pleaded that I would have the strength to accomplish all that God required of me. I got up, gave her a hug, and went to give the blessing. As I did, I was reminded of the Lord’s promise that 'My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.'[7] I was weak, but I felt His strength that night. After giving the blessing, I returned home, finished my assignment, and God worked the necessary miracles in both our lives.
For the widow of Zarephath, the invitation to feed a hungry prophet was actually a rescue mission designed by the Lord just for her. Elijah helped her to lift her vision above her empty barrel and fix her eyes on a loving God. When she was about to have her last meal and die, he helped her to ‘look to God and live.’ [8] The same was true for me. As I look back, I see that God saved me during my university years by giving me opportunities to look outside myself. While some might consider these ‘Elijah-like’ invitations as asking too much, the reality is that God gave so much in return for my simple offering. The miracle is this: when I offered even a small portion of myself in God’s service, He rescued me.
When you experience similar challenges and feel like you have already given everything and your own barrel has not yet been filled, you may hear the voice of the Spirit—like the voice of Elijah—saying, ‘bring me more’. When you feel this spiritual stretch, please trust that while God is asking more of you, He is doing so because He is not yet finished lifting you.
Now, please don’t misunderstand the intent here. This isn’t about guilt, and it isn't a challenge to take on more than is humanly possible. I’m not interested in adding to the weight you may already be carrying. It is, however, a reminder that God will often provide experiences that help us stretch precisely when we feel we have nothing left to give.
Sometimes we sit with our ‘final handful of meal’, preparing to give up, when the Lord is ready to fill our barrel. We stay stuck in a place of personal comfort, aimlessly drifting, while the Lord is inviting us to lose ourselves in His service promising that 'whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it'.[9] Interestingly, the added pressure and power that comes from taking on service is often exactly what provides the momentum we need to accomplish the other parts of our lives. You will find additional strength to both call on and recognize miracles when you are consecrated.
When you find yourself in spaces where you are lost, overwhelmed, or feeling defeated, please do not sell yourself short.
Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin once reminded us: “We see ourselves in terms of yesterday and today. Our Heavenly Father sees us in terms of forever. Although we might settle for less, Heavenly Father won’t, for He sees us as the glorious beings we are capable of becoming.” [10]
Please, follow the widow’s example. Exercise humility, keep listening to the prophetic messages God is providing to help you look outward, and allow Him to mould you into who He knows you can become.
2. Your Righteous Use of Agency is The Pathway to Purpose and Lasting Peace
When we criticise those who lead, compare our lives to the carefully scripted social feeds of others, or complain about our circumstances, we are ultimately handing our agency over to someone else. Every hour spent blaming a parent, a leader, or ‘the Church’ for our struggles is an hour lost from deepening our relationship with God and finding solutions. The widow of Zarephath could have easily spent her final hours blaming King Ahab for the drought—and she may have been justified in doing so. But blaming Ahab would not have filled her barrel. Following the prophet did. She used her agency to take righteous action and was rescued.
Choosing to act requires us to reject the world’s pursuit of possessions, power, or popularity. The Saviour’s mortal journey was focused on fulfilling God’s purpose and bringing healing to others. The scriptures teach us that He didn't even have a place to lay His head, held no political office, and by the end of His life, He was anything but popular. Yet, He brought peace to all who followed Him. Those who chase the world’s version of success often destroy their own peace—and the peace of others around them—in a pursuit that is hollow and will never satisfy the human soul.
God needs you to use the gift of agency and be a positive contributor in the world. To do so we must avoid being consumers. A consumer enters a chapel and asks, "What can this ward do for me?” Or, “Why hasn't the bishop met with me yet?" But a contributor enters the same chapel and asks, "Who is sitting alone today?” “How can my talents solve a problem?” “How can I be Christ’s hands?"
When you stop being a critic or blaming others you reclaim the precious power of agency that God has given you. You take on the character of Christ and grow in spiritual substance. Life becomes brighter, hope deepens and you add light to those around you. This shift from being a consumer to a contributor is transforming and allows the attributes of Christ to become part of you. These attributes are the very tools you need to start a business, lead a family, or accept a daunting calling. God isn’t just trying to provide you with a living that feeds you physically; He is helping you to become a powerful force for good. To accomplish this higher purpose, He must be allowed to shape and refine you. As Isaiah so beautifully teaches "we are the clay, and thou our potter." [11]
This moulding process requires a sacrifice that is counterintuitive to the natural man or woman. We live in a world that thrives on temporary emotional highs. The ping from a notification, the rush of viral videos, or the quick dopamine hit from online sports betting. But real joy is weaved into our lives through daily holy habits and the consistency of a lifetime of discipleship. Do not lower your standards or abandon eternal truths to fit the room you are in. Like Helaman’s warriors, be "true at all times.” [12]
We know that faith precedes the miracle, and we shouldn’t be fooled into thinking that we can have the ‘harvest before the planting’. [13] However, in our diligent efforts to exercise faith we must also remember that God is the gardener who provides the harvest and He will lovingly succor you in your weakness. When He looks at your weakness, it is always through a loving lens of mercy. He promises that if we humble ourselves, He will "make weak things become strong" unto us. [14]
So, to those whose faith might be just a handful of meal, I humbly invite you to give to the Lord, to renew access to God’s power through your righteous use of agency. If you can "cheerfully do all things that lie in [your] power,” I testify that you will “see the salvation of God" and His power will be revealed. [15]
3. Hold Fast to Truth Even When Life’s Pieces Don't Fit Perfectly
It can be difficult to hold fast or stand firm when life’s pieces don’t fit perfectly or don’t make sense. The widow of Zarephath was asked to do something that, intellectually, made no sense. Why would a man of God ask a starving woman for her last bit of food?
In your own life, you will encounter things that don't fully make sense. You might find a piece of historical information, an account of a prophet’s shortcoming, or a new podcast that challenges your spiritual foundation. My plea to you is this—don’t abandon what you know because of what you don’t know.
Every school holiday, my wife sets a puzzle on a table in our lounge room. The picture on the lid gives us a vision of what is possible, but for days it can be difficult to make sense of the individual pieces. Sometimes we are sure we’ve got incorrect pieces; other times it feels like they are missing completely. I’ve learned a valuable lesson from watching her: when the pieces don’t seem to fit, don’t give up or throw the puzzle away. Keep building on the beautiful parts you can see and eventually the picture comes together.
The same is true for our lives. When parts of the gospel don’t fit the way you believe they should, don't abandon the entire picture. Hold on to the beautiful truths you have already found in the gospel of Jesus Christ and continue to contribute to His remarkable Church that you are part of. If the gospel picture feels a little blurry right now, let me share a few of the puzzle pieces that have brought greater clarity for me as I have lived my faith as a member of Christ’s Church.
I’ve seen a faithful brother with Down syndrome light up a ward as he rushed to the pulpit each month to bear his witness of Jesus Christ. I’ve witnessed a faithful sister, well into her years, give of her savings to help primary children with a simple invitation to use those funds to serve the Lord and others. I can still feel the embrace of an older brother who hugged me every single Sunday as I walked into the chapel.
I’ve seen ward members minister with tireless love to a couple after a life-altering car accident. I’ve felt the warm, reassuring power of the Atonement sweep over me, whispering that through Christ, I can change and be better. In the temple I have felt peace that “passeth all understanding,” [16] reminding me of the eternal bond I share with my dad and other family members who have passed beyond the veil.
The list goes on.
Twice a year, throughout my entire life, I have listened to the constant, faithful reminders from prophets of God to “stand a little taller,” [17] rescue the one, [18] “Let God Prevail,”[19] and that “Jesus Christ is the way.” [20] I’ve been reminded of what matters most when I’ve heard the children in Primary sing "I Will Walk with Jesus." [21] Their witness through music has helped me remember that He will never leave me, even when I fall. I am reminded of Christ’s healing balm every time a young man in a white shirt gives of his time to offer me the sacrament.
These are the miracles woven into the very fabric of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Are there pieces of the gospel puzzle that do not perfectly fit for me yet? Yes. But I could never abandon what I know, or the miracles I experience in this gospel, because of a few missing or seemingly misshaped pieces I have yet to place.
So, here is my invitation to you: when puzzle pieces don’t quite fit or when life’s events don’t follow your intended plan, stick to righteous patterns. If a prayer isn't answered the way you want, don't abandon God. His goal isn't to give you everything that you want; it’s to help you become like Him—'humble, patient, [and] full of love’. [22] If you find yourself in a moment of stress or a relationship difficulty, choose to stick to holy habits. Drop to your knees in prayer, minister to someone in need, attend the temple or offer service in your calling. Keep following the inspired counsel found in the Word of Wisdom – eat healthy food, exercise, fill your mind with content that will uplift, inspire and bring you peace. Never fall into the trap of turning to the world’s temporary numbing agents like alcohol or mindless scrolling. Keep your mind clear so you can hear His voice.
Recently, President Dallin H. Oaks taught that one of the reasons we need the constant influence of the Holy Ghost is that we live in a time when the adversary has become increasingly effective at disguising truth—and without the Spirit to guide us, we will be deceived. Like Elijah providing a spiritual lifeline to the widow, President Oaks offered four impressions to help us draw closer to Jesus Christ. He taught us to strengthen our faith in Him, increase our humility, seek help from others, and be patient. [23]
As you seek to understand and complete the puzzle of mortality, I testify that the big picture will remain clearer throughout your life, and you will receive the pieces you need as you follow prophetic counsel. You will be spiritually filled, even when you are surrounded by spiritual drought.
4. Lift the Sights of Others to Jesus Christ
When Karen and I were married we began the “race” of life together. Over the years that followed we were blessed with four beautiful sons. Eventually we reached a stage where we felt we could finally go out on a date and leave our eldest son to watch over his three younger brothers.
We had just arrived at dinner when the phone rang. It was our eldest son, and in the background, we could hear the fear-filled cries of his younger brother. He was terrified of the dark, and without his mum there, they couldn’t console him. Our eldest son pleaded, "Please come home. I don't know what to do." We told him, "Say a family prayer together, ask for help, and we will be home as soon as we can."
We rushed home, expecting to hear his cries from the street. Instead, we found a quiet home. We walked into the bedroom, and there was our little boy, fast asleep on the floor. At his feet were two small boxes, and carefully placed on top was a picture of Jesus Christ. Our older boys didn’t know how to fix the fear, but they knew how to invite Light into that dark room. They remembered the verse “Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not.” [24]
That son who placed the picture of Christ in front of the eyes of his fear-filled little brother is now serving a mission in Tahiti, continuing his efforts to lift the sights of others to the Saviour. For those of you who are returned missionaries, your life has been blessed by a transformational season of service. But please, don’t let that mission be the peak of your mortal journey. It was never meant to be the highest point of your contribution to God’s work. You were changing lives when you placed that badge on your chest each day and God continues to need the very best you have to give. Whether it is a challenging calling, the courage to start dating, or the discipline to stay consistent in holy habits, recognise these as ‘Elijah-like’ invitations to stretch. Your ‘barrel of meal’ will continue to be filled as you willingly choose to share what God has already given you.
President Dallin H. Oaks recently reminded young adults that they have a way to lift their own vision and that of others to Jesus Christ. He shared: “At institute you will learn to distinguish truth from error... find direction and discover answers to life’s greatest questions... and prepare to love and lead like the Savior.” [25]
Just like my sons in that dark room, you will encounter situations where you don’t know what to do. But when you come together to study the word of God in religion classes on campus or at institute, you add your light to others. You allow God vital access to your mind and your heart.
There will be times you come with a ‘mere handful of flour’ in search of a meal. And there will be times when you come, like Elijah, to encourage someone else. In both cases, you are part of God’s rescue mission. When you immerse yourselves in the scriptures you are promised greater access to His light. You become part of a powerful force of people that are moving God's work forward.
Conclusion
This is a time of complexity, filled with uncertainty. But God needs you now at this point in human history. He will not leave you alone.
President Ezra Taft Benson gave us this promise: “Men and women who turn their lives over to God will discover that He can make a lot more out of their lives than they can. He can deepen their joys, expand their vision…. multiply their blessings, increase their opportunities, comfort their souls, raise up friends and pour out peace.” [26]
To the ‘widows of Zarephath’ among us: if you are in the refiner’s fire and feel like God is asking for more than you have to give, please keep going. You are doing so much better than you think. Hand your life over to Him. He is aware of you, He loves you, and He has a work for you to do.
I leave you my witness that as you hand your life over to God, righteously use your agency, hold fast to truth and lift the sights of others to Jesus Christ, your simple 'handful of meal’ and ‘cruse of oil’ will be multiplied and your spiritual barrel will always be filled.
In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Notes:
[1] 1 Kings 17:10
[2] 1 Kings 17:11
[3] 1 Kings 17:13
[4] 1 Kings 17:14
[5] 1 Kings 17:15
[6] Doctrine and Covenants 64:33
[7] 2 Corinthians 12:9
[8] Alma 37:47
[9] Matthew 16:25
[10] Joseph B. Wirthlin, “The Great Commandment,” Ensign or Liahona, November, 2007, 29-30
[11] Isaiah 64:8
[12] Alma 53:20
[13] Spencer W. Kimball, “The Fruit of Our Welfare Services Labors,” Ensign, November 1978, 74
[14] Ether 12:27
[15] Doctrine and Covenants 123:17
[16] Philippians 4:7
[17] Gordon B. Hinckley, “This is the Work of the Master,” Ensign, May 1995, 71
[18] Thomas S. Monson, “To the Rescue,” Ensign, May 2001
[19] Russell M. Nelson, “Let God Prevail,” Ensign or Liahona, November 2020
[20] Dallin H. Oaks, “New First Presidency Discusses Key Issues and Shares Hopes for the World” [interview as a new first presidency, October 15, 2025], newsroom.ChurchofJesusChrist.org
[21] “I Will Walk with Jesus,” Hymns, no.1004
[22] Mosiah 3:19
[23] Dallin H. Oaks, “Coming Close to Jesus Christ” [Brigham Young University devotional, February 10, 2026] speeches.byu.edu
[24] Doctrine and Covenants 6:36
[25] Dallin H. Oaks, “President Oaks Institute Invitation Video” [address to young adults to attend institute], Gospel Library
[26] Ezra T. Benson, “Jesus Christ—Gifts and Expectations” [Brigham Young University devotional, December 10, 1974] speeches.byu.edu