Obadiah
The Faithful Servant in a Corrupt Palace
Name Information
- Meaning: "Servant of Yahweh"
- Language of Origin: Hebrew
- Gender Usage: Masculine
Obadiah was a high-ranking official in King Ahab’s court who feared the Lord greatly. While working within a wicked government, he remained faithful to God by secretly protecting 100 prophets during Jezebel’s murderous purge. His quiet courage and loyalty to God show how it’s possible to serve Him faithfully even in dark and dangerous places.
⏰ Divided Kingdom (Northern Israel, time of Ahab and Elijah)
Roles
- Palace Administrator
- Protector of Prophets
- Servant of the Lord
Relationships
- King: Ahab
- Queen: Jezebel (opposer)
- Prophet: Elijah (ally)
Story
While Jezebel was killing the prophets of the Lord, Obadiah hid 100 of them — 50 in each of two caves — and supplied them secretly.
He worked in Ahab’s palace, managing royal affairs while remaining devoted to God.
During the great drought, Obadiah was sent with Ahab to search for grass. On that journey, he encountered Elijah.
Elijah told Obadiah to inform Ahab of his return — a dangerous task — but Obadiah obeyed despite his fear, trusting God.
Spiritual Significance
- Obadiah was in charge of Ahab’s palace but remained faithful to the Lord in secret.
- During Jezebel’s persecution, he risked his life to hide 100 prophets of God in two caves and supplied them with food and water.
- He encountered Elijah during the drought and helped facilitate the prophet’s meeting with Ahab.
- His story is a powerful example of quiet courage and faithful service in a hostile environment.
What We Can Learn
- You can remain faithful to God even in ungodly workplaces or governments.
- Courage doesn't always look loud — sometimes it's quiet, hidden obedience.
- God honors those who protect and support His people, even behind the scenes.
- Fear is real, but obedience means trusting God with the consequences.
Memory Verses
Obadiah was a devout believer in the Lord. While Jezebel was killing off the Lord’s prophets, Obadiah had taken a hundred prophets and hidden them in two caves.
— 1 Kings 18:3–4What have I done wrong, that you are handing your servant over to Ahab to be put to death?
— 1 Kings 18:9
Key Passages
- 1 Kings 18:1–16
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