I’m deeply impressed by the man’s gentleness. Though Elijah deserved none of the woman’s blame, he stood silent under her blast. That’s gentleness. Someone, somewhere, has called this fruit of the Spirit “the mint-mark of heaven.”
Read MoreTag Archives: First Kings
Confident in the Lord’s Power
She stands there, tears streaming down her face, holding the body of her son in her arms. And at that precise moment, Elijah holds out his arms and says, “Give him to me.”
Read MoreIncredible Associations
Elijah had walked into a situation that was, from all human perspective, impossible. But the good news is that he saw beyond the difficulty. He handled the problem with faith, not fear.
Read MoreCrucible for Christ
As we did earlier, let’s first examine the significance of the name of this place where the prophet was told to go. Zarephath comes from a Hebrew verb that means “to melt, to smelt.” Interestingly, in noun form it means “crucible.”
Read MoreOur Obstacle Course
Part of every boot camp experience is the grueling, grinding, and sometimes daunting obstacle course. It is neither fun nor easy, but its demanding discipline prepares the recruit for whatever situations he or she may face.
Read MoreLaying the Foundation of Courage
Elijah had prayed that it would not rain and, ultimately, it did not rain for three and a half years. So the dried-up brook was just an indication that the very thing he had prayed for was beginning to take place. He was living in the result of his own prayer.
Read MoreTough Spots
Elijah was in a tough spot. A life-threatening spot. The brook had dried up. Had God forgotten His faithful servant? Has God forgotten you? Has He left you all alone? The God who gives water can also withhold water.
Read MoreThe Brook Has Dried Up
One morning Elijah noticed that the brook wasn’t gushing over the rocks or running as freely as it had in days past. Since that single stream of water was his lifeline, he checked it carefully.
Read MoreGod’s Provisions
The ravens were God’s catering service, delivering provisions to His prophet. “The ravens will bring in your food, Elijah.” Isn’t that incredible? God makes provision for Elijah’s physical welfare during this time of seclusion.
Read MoreA Step at a Time
God’s direction includes God’s provision. God says, “Go to the brook. I will provide.” Vance Havner, in his book, It Is Toward Evening, tells the story of a group of farmers who were raising cotton in the Deep South.
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