What are you doing here, Elijah?

In the middle of 1 Kings we find the ministry of the prophet Elijah. To begin, he proclaims that it will not rain until he says so. Fed by ravens, he lives in the wilderness until the creek dries up. Then according to God’s (Yahweh) command, Elijah travels outside of Israel and provides food for a widow and revives her son when he becomes deathly ill. Three years into the drought, he returns to Israel and at Mt Carmel Yahweh answers Elijah’s prayer with fire, consuming his sacrifice. He proclaims the return of rain. That evening the queen vows Elijah’s death as revenge since her prophets were harmed during an uprising after the sacrifice. He runs in fear far beyond the border and is met by God who feeds him, questions his rogue choice of travel plans, and sends him back north to anoint new kings and prophets.
What can we learn from Elijah?
The difference between faithful and misguided action in Elijah’s life is whether or not he makes rest, stillness, and listening to the voice of God a priority. Prayer is Elijah’s source of confidence and authority.
I’ll offer a simple application for today. When fearful worry captures our thoughts, prayerful listening is key for clinging to God’s mercy and entrusting the journey and results to the One who always provides guidance and “daily bread.” All will be well. Not necessarily as we wish, but all is safe in God’s care. Always.
It’s so simple and yet if you’re anything like me, you need to be reminded moment by moment. Thanks be to God that the Spirit reminds us.