In his sermon, "When the Brook Dries Up," Pastor Maxwell begins by exploring the hardship of trusting in God in uncertain circumstances. He uses the example of losing a job and subsequent unemployment support as a metaphor for times when our personal sources of sustenance run dry. He relates this experience to the biblical story of Elijah, found in 1 Kings chapter 17, who also faced a physically dry time during a drought. Even in this harsh scenario, God provided for Elijah by sending him water from a brook and food via ravens, proof of His continual support even in the harshest of circumstances. Yet, the brook dried up over time, prompting Pastor Maxwell to underscore his main point: our sources may dry up to challenge our faith and increase our reliance on God. The congregation is advised to view these dry periods as opportunities to look to God for His guidance and seek His word. The pastor emphasizes that our reliance should be on God rather than the temporary, earthly provisions He grants. Further, Pastor Maxwell recounts how God instructs Elijah to seek refuge in the seemingly hostile territory of Zarephath, where a widow manages to take care of him. Such a story serves to underline the notion that God can sustain us even in surprising and unfavorable places. He stresses that instructions from God, albeit seemingly irrational, are to be followed as His ways and wisdom far exceed ours. The sermon then integrates the tale of the Zarephath widow who, despite her dire circumstances, puts God first and generously offers Elijah some of her last supplies of flour and oil. In return, God ensures her reserves never run out, validating the idea that trust in God, even in times of scarcity, will yield provision and abundance. In conclusion, Pastor Maxwell urges the congregation to live a life of unyielding faith by always prioritizing God, even when their proverbial brook dries up. He reminds them of the ultimate provision from God – the sacrifice of His son, Jesus, for the atonement of their sins. With the assurance that God has handled their most significant need, salvation, the pastor reaffirms the belief that He will surely provide for their daily needs. This powerful sermon ends with a call to action, a plea to the congregation to stand firm in their commitment to trusting God no matter the situation.