BE STILL AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD

“Why are you here, Elijah?” –1 Kings 19:9

The mighty prophet Elijah had more confidence in Queen Jezebel’s wicked fury than he did in his own strength. Jezebel had sworn to eliminate Elijah and sent assassins to hunt him down and kill him (1 Kgs 19:2-3). Elijah had stood as strong as a “wall of brass” against the whole nation (see Jer 1:18), but he was not able to stand up to one furious, powerful, vengeful woman.

Elijah fled the country, walking over forty days to put as much distance as possible between him and Jezebel’s assassins (1 Kgs 19:8). Finally, the Lord was able to break through Elijah’s fear and asked him: “Why are you here, Elijah?” (1 Kgs 19:9). While Elijah was conversing with God, God didn’t listen to Elijah’s excuses. Instead, God called Elijah to a new mission and sent him back out (1 Kgs 19:15).

It is God’s call and mission that give us fresh strength as we step out and obey. In His kindness, the Lord sent Elijah on a route that would mercifully take a wide detour around the wicked Jezebel. Finally, in His awesome mercy, the Lord took Elijah up safely to heaven in a whirlwind (2 Kgs 2:11). Then He sent a double-portion of Elijah’s spirit into his successor, Elisha (2 Kgs 2:9, 14-15).

God wants us to simply quiet down and listen. Then He can get through to us. For Elijah, Jezebel was Goliath. We all have Goliaths. We must be still, know that God is almighty, and make it our priority to listen for God’s voice rather than Goliath’s.

PRAYER: Father, “though an army encamp against me, my heart will not fear; though war be waged upon me, even then will I trust” (Ps 27:3).

PROMISE: “I believe that I shall see the bounty of the Lord in the land of the living.” –Ps 27:13

PRAISE: Thomas’ addiction was overwhelming until he admitted he was powerless, turned to the All-powerful, and received grace to overcome it.