Week 8 (The Fall of Israel) – Day 4: Elijah & the Prophets of Baal

Day 39 – Elijah & the Prophets of Baal – 1 Kings 16:29-19:18

Today’s reading has quite a bit of material.  The prophet Elijah is introduced as the main protagonist of King Ahab.  As I noted in my general discussion on the somewhat misnamed Book of Kings, the focus is on God and the prophets rather than detailed accounts of actions of the kings after Solomon.  We have details of Ahab’s reign from other sources and know that he was one of the most powerful rulers of Israel.  Yet he is dismissed with the words: “Ahab son of Omri did evil in the sight of the Lord more than all who were before him.” (1 Kings 16:30)

The many exploits of Elijah are amazing.  Yet do not lose sight of the fact that it is truly God acting, through Elijah, in these events.  Note how Elijah acts with great boldness (c 18) but then runs away in despair (c 19).  As you read through the events of Elijah’s life, reflect on your own life and how God has acted through you.

We also see God act in fire (1 Kings 18:38) and in stillness (1 Kings 19:12).  Reflect on God’s many methods of speaking to us.  What works best for you?

In Christ,

Randy

PS My apologies - this was supposed to be put out Wednesday night for Thursday reading.  I had it ready but forgot to post.  A sign of how my week has gone!