By the poor widow’s oil and meal

The words

1. 1

   Stanza 1. By the poor widow’s oil and mealElijah was sustained;Though small the stock it lasted well,For God the store maintained.

2. 2

   Stanza 2. 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.

3. 3

   Stanza 3. Thus to his poor he still will giveJust for the present hour;But for tomorrow they must liveUpon his word and power.

4. 4

   Stanza 4. No barn or storehouse they possessOn which they can depend;Yet have no cause to fear distress,For Jesus is their friend.

5. 5

   Stanza 5. Then let not doubts your mind assail,Remember, God has said,“The cruse and barrel shall not fail,“My people shall be fed.”

6. 6

   Stanza 6. And thus though faint it often seems,He keeps their grace alive;Supplied by his refreshing streams,Their dying hopes revive.

7. 7

   Stanza 7. 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.

Olney Hymns (1779), Book 1, Hymn 36. John Newton. Public domain. CCEL transcription with modernized spelling. www.praylock.com/olney-hymns/1-36