I Kings 19:1-8
How quickly things change! In the preceding chapter, Elijah has
called down fire from heaven and routed the prophets of Baal at Mt. Carmel. This
was not subtle confrontation, but total domination as the power of God is
displayed. One might think Elijah would be so emboldened by God's faithfulness,
and yet, when Queen Jezebel hears what he has done, she promises to have him
killed within twenty-four hours. In absolute terror, Elijah runs for his
life. He stops along the way long enough to rest under a
tree, declaring, "I have had enough, Lord."
There have probably been those moments on your walk of faith
when, like Elijah, you have felt that you have had enough. You have experienced
the wonder of God's power and presence, yet threatened by something or someone,
you have forgotten what once gave you strength. God did not change in the
aftermath of Mt. Carmel's victory, yet Elijah's fear overshadowed his faith.
Neither have the promises of God changed because your circumstances have
changed.
The cross of Christ reminds us that defeat can be overcome by
victory. Jesus said, "In this world you will have trouble.
But take heart! I have overcome
the world.” When the hope of faith is overshadowed by the uncertainties of
this life, take heart...trust that God will continue
faithful.
Jim Abernathy
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