By The Poor Widow's Oil And Meal

By the poor widow's oil and meal

Elijah was sustained;

Though small the stock it lasted well,

For God the store maintained.

It seemed as if from day to day,

They were to eat and die;

But still, though in a secret way,

He sent a fresh supply.

Thus to His poor He still will give

Just for the present hour;

But for tomorrow they must live

Upon His word and power.

No barn or storehouse they possess

On which they can depend;

Yet have no cause to fear distress,

For Jesus is their Friend.

Then let not doubts your mind assail,

Remember, God has said,

"The cruse and barrel shall not fail;

My people shall be fed."

And thus though faint it often seems,

He keeps their grace alive;

Supplied by His refreshing streams,

Their dying hopes revive.

Though in ourselves we have no stock,

The Lord is nigh to save;

His door flies open when we knock,

And 'tis but ask and have.