In the last several messages we considered the prophet Elijah as he was used by God to miraculously confront the 450 prophets of Baal, but then sank into a deep despair when threatened by Queen Jezebel; “I have had enough Lord, take my life” (1 Kings 19:4). We saw how God demonstrated His compassion, sent Elijah on a forty day journey through the desert, and revealed His presence in a gentle whisper (1 Kings 19:12). But after all this, God had a very serious question for Elijah.
1 Kings 19:13
“Then a voice said to him, ‘What are you doing here, Elijah?'”
Obviously, the question was not in reference to Elijah’s physical location. Elijah was standing on the mountain because God had called him to that exact location. Though God already knew the answer, His question was asking Elijah what had brought him to this spiritually defeated condition. Elijah had been given the opportunity to talk with God, witness His power, and actually stand in His presence, yet he was filled with doubt and felt terribly alone; “I am the only one left” (1 Kings 19:14).
Once again, God could have lectured Elijah on his lack of faith. Instead, in His mercy, God gave Elijah the reassurance he needed to continue; “I reserve seven thousand in Israel – all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal” (1 Kings 19:18). God encouraged Elijah that there were many others fighting this same battle. He also gave Elijah a companion who would walk with him for the remainder of His ministry; “Anoint Elisha to succeed you as prophet” (1 Kings 19:17).
Jesus Christ died as a sacrifice for our sin so we could be restored to a loving relationship with our Heavenly Father. This relationship saves us from an eternal death and separation from God, but it also allows us to be saved from the despair, fear, loneliness, and lack of purpose which surrounds us today. As we trust God for our eternal salvation, we must also trust Him to daily save us from the effects of a fallen world as well as our own weak and sinful nature. He is there to hear our cry and we must never be afraid or ashamed to tell Him exactly how we feel: “I’m weak and lonely, frustrated and discouraged. Lord, I need You! … please hold me!!” Nothing we say will ever surprise God or cause Him to let us go.
Our Heavenly Father has called us to examine our heart, confess our condition, and trust Him for the solution – He has called us to be saved! When we recognize and confess our weakness, we actually demonstrate our strength in the Lord. Let’s strive to live each day in His presence, but let’s also be prepared to respond honestly and without fear when God asks: “What are you doing here?”
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries
**** Reading Plan ****
Sep 5 Ecclesiastes 10:1-12:14; 2 Corinthians 8:1-15; Psalm 49:1-20; Proverbs 22:20-21
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