Olney Hymns · Chapter
Elijah Fed by Ravens explained
This poem reflects on the biblical account of Elijah being fed by ravens during a famine, drawing parallels to the believer's trust in God's provision.
What happens
This poem reflects on the biblical account of Elijah being fed by ravens during a famine, drawing parallels to the believer's trust in God's provision. It emphasizes that God can use unlikely means, even ravens or Satan, to supply the needs of His people, and encourages reliance on the Good Shepherd.
Themes in this chapter
Divine Providence and Guidance
The poem highlights God's providential care, using ravens to feed Elijah and assuring believers that God will provide for their needs.
Faith and Trust in Christ
The poem encourages trust in God's promises, emphasizing that faith can prevail and that God's promises never fail.
Characters to notice
- Elijah
The prophet who, despite famine, was fed by ravens, demonstrating faith in God's provision.
- Satan
Described as an unclean raven who, though hostile, is compelled by God to serve the saints' needs.
- The Good Shepherd
The one who supplies all needs and tames ravens and lions, representing Christ's care for His people.
Key passages
“More likely to rob than to feed Were ravens, who live upon prey; But when the Lord’s people have need, His goodness will find out a way.”
Ravens are naturally predatory and unlikely to feed others, but when God's people are in need, His goodness will always find a way to provide.
Highlights the miraculous nature of God's provision through unlikely means.
“Thus Satan, that raven unclean, Who croaks in the ears of the saints, Compell’d by a Power unseen, Administers oft to their wants.”
Satan, like an unclean raven, often harasses the saints, but God compels him to serve their needs, turning temptations into spiritual nourishment.
Illustrates how God can use even evil for the good of His people.