JULY 22, 1 Kings 18:41-19:1-3

The victory at Mt. Carmel was spectacular. Elijah ordered the people to capture and kill all the prophets of Baal. Then, he went up to Mt. Carmel to pray for rain and rain came down in abundance just as he had prophesied to King Ahab. The people seemed to have turned from worshipping idols to worshipping the God of Israel. Everything seemed to be going well.

Then the shocking news came - Jezebel wanted his life. Apparently, King Ahab had reported to his wife all of Elijah’s deeds, including the slaying of her prophets. The Bible says that Elijah got up and ran for his life. Surprised? The courageous prophet, who had stood against hundreds of God’s enemies and the nation of Israel, now panicked and decided to run for his life. After all the experience of the Lord’s protection and provisions, what had happened to his courage?

Actually, we should not be surprised. Remember Elijah is human like us. He had weaknesses too. He had expected the people who witnessed the miracle at Mt Carmel to have repented and been converted, but none stood on his side when Jezebel threatened him. When he realised that they had not repented, he felt disappointed. His work as a prophet seemed to have come to nought. Do we not sometimes feel like running away from our troubles?

Look at the picture and answer these questions.

Who is praying?
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Who is looking for the rain?
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Who ran in the rain before Ahab?

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Thought: Run to God for He will help!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, You know that even a brave prophet like Elijah can be afraid. Help me to turn to You when I am fearful. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.