Read: 1 Kings 18-19
Elijah was a man zealous for the Lord. With godly courage, he confronted Ahab about the impending drought. He remained faithful to God in the wilderness. He spoke with the authority of the Lord as he gathered Israel to Mount Carmel and obediently led God’s battle against the false prophets. He proclaimed the truth of Israel’s rebellion against God and their rejection of His covenant.
Even though God provided a climactic victory, Elijah endured intense spiritual, emotional, and physical anguish, especially when Jezebel threatened his life.
The strain became too much for him as he isolated himself from others, falsely believing there were no other prophets of God in Israel. He was so depressed that he prayed to die, then slept soundly from exhaustion and despair. However, God cared for Elijah by providing food and water for him.
Then God sent him to Horeb for another mountain top experience. There the Lord gave Elijah a fresh encounter of his presence, not in the fire or the wind, but through a gentle whisper.
Finally, God brought Elisha into Elijah’s life. Elisha would become a surrogate son, a friend, and a confidante to the end of Elijah’s ministry, helping him finish strongly.
PRAYER PROMPT: Father God, forgive us when we isolate ourselves from you and your church and focus only on the adversity of our lives. Refresh us physically. Restore us spiritually. Renew our minds daily. Encourage us through others. Let us cast our cares on you, because you care about us. Amen.
Kevin Carrothers serves as director of missions for Salem South Baptist Association and is concluding his second one-year term as IBSA President.