Category Archives: 1 Kings

Hint: Just leave him standing alone.

For Sunday School in our congregation, we’ve been studying in Ezekiel. And that has included reading and studying about the watchman. This morning I ponder again the reality that watchmen get worn out and discouraged. Done for, really.

Where are those who have been tasked with sustaining and encouraging the watchman?

And that reminds me of Elijah. He was mighty in spirit and valorous in deed. But then he got discouraged and went into hiding. “I’m the only one left, Lord, and they’re trying to find me to kill me.” God told him 7,000 people remained in Israel who hadn’t bowed to idols.

So I ask: Where were those 7,000 when the prophet needed them?! Why did they leave him standing…and then fleeing…alone…and lonely…and done with his ministry…and his life? Continue reading →

Reading:
1 Kings 19:11-18

No, I don’t think God was quite so casual in speaking to His prophet — but maybe that way of putting it brought you here.

Anyway, God’s question for Elijah, as recorded in the second half of verse 13, echoed in my heart:

“And, behold, there came a voice unto him, and said, What doest thou here, Elijah?”

Yeah, Mark — Whatcha here fer?

In that Elijah’s case, I take the question and the circumstances to suggest that Mr. Prophet should have been elsewhere.

Maybe in my case, the question is merely intended to provoke a review of what I’m up to here and for what purposes.

Because if the question for me really means I should be elsewhere, that’s a problem. I don’t know where else I’m supposed to be.

(Though I think I would like to be serving in Mexico again. Shhhh!)

[The Scriptures say in 1 Kings 19:10 -- I have been very jealous for the LORD God of hosts]
from 1 Kings 19:10