The Preacher Who Faced Burnout And Ran From A Woman
We are never alone on this journey. God would remind Elijah of Himself – I AM. Sometimes along the journey we need a bit of reminder and at times a re-commission. How about the people you work with? Do they need a reminder of their God and their mission? Relationships falling apart? It is as if God said “Elijah! Let me remind you who I am.” He tells him “Go, stand here on the mountain.” Then the Lord passed by Elijah. First there was a strong wind, rending the mountain and tearing up rocks into pieces. Then there was an earthquake. Next, there was fire. Imagine this display of power, might and majesty. I will remind you that I am God Elijah!! Still, after such a display of force and might, God did not speak to Elijah in the “noise of the wind, the earthquake nor the fire.” He spoke to him in a gentle voice.
I ask you…I plead with you…Find God’s voice in the midst of all the noise around you. Seek Him and you will find Him
‘Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. ‘I will be found by you,’ declares the LORD, ‘and I will restore your fortunes…” (Jeremiah 29: 12-14a)
God grants Elijah help
It is possible that this story would have had a different outcome. What would have happened if Elijah stood his ground and declared some things? After that Mount Carmel experience, what if he had confronted the ungodly queen? What would happen if we face our enemies in the might of the Lord?
In any case, God recommissioned his servant and gave him some help. “Go anoint these three men Elijah” (1 Kings 19:15-16). His three appointments would finish the work he started. God would use Hazael to inflict punishment upon Israel in his role as King of Damascus (external punishment). God would use Jehu to destroy those who worshiped false gods in his role as king of Israel (internal punishment). Lastly, Elijah appointed Elisha as his successor. The journey was too much for Elijah. God gave him rest. He was not the only one. You are not alone. Take the time to find God in moments when you feel overwhelmed.
References:
The Life Application Study Bible (NASB). The United States of America: Zondervan (2000)
Smith, J. The History of Israel. Joplin, MO: College Press (1995)
Google Image
Dr. Kev Hall