Chapter Twelve/He Took Comfort in His God-How Jehovah Comforted and Strengthened His Prophet- Conclusion

 

After the fire was gone, a hush fell and Elijah heard "a calm, low voice."  It invited Elijah to express himself again, and he did so, pouring out his concerns a second time.  Perhaps that brought him further relief.  Undoubtedly, though, Elijah found even more comfort in what the "calm, love voice" told him next. Jehovah reassured Elijah tat he was far from worthless.  How so? God revealed much of his long-range purpose regarding the war against Baal worship in Israel.  Clearly Elijah's work had not been in vain, for God's purpose was moving inexorably forward.  Furthermore, Elijah still figured in that purpose, for Jehovah sent him back to work with some specific instructions. - 1 KINGS 19:12-17. 

What about Elijah's feelings of loneliness?  Jehovah did two things about that.  First, he told Elijah to anoint Elisha as the prophet who would eventually succeed him.  This younger man would become Elijah's companion and helper for a nuimber of years.  How practical that comfort was! Second, Jehovah revealed this thrilling news: "I have let seven thousand remain in Israel, all the knees that have not bent down to Baal, and every mouth tha thas not kissed him." (1 Kings 19:18)  Elijah was far from alone. It must have warmed his heart to hear of those thousands of faithful people who refused to worship Baal.  They needed Elijah to keep up his faithful service, to set an example of unshakeable loyalty  to Jehovah in those dark times. Elijah musrt have been deeply touched to hear those words through Jehovah's messenger, the "calm, low voice" of his God. 

Like Elijah, we may be awestruck by the immense natural forces evident in creation, and rightly so.  Creation vividly reflects the power of the Creator.  (Romans 1:20) JEhbovah still loves to use his limitless might to help his faithful servants.  (2 Chronicles 16:9) However, God speaks most fully to us through the pages of his Word, the Bible.  (Read Isaiah 30:21) In sense, the Bible can be like that "calm, low voice" If we let it guide us today.  In its precioius  pages, Jehovah corrects us, encourages us, and reassures us of his love.

Did Elijah accept the comfort Jehovah gave him on Mount Horeb?  Without a doubt!  Soon he was back in action, once morethe bold, faithful prophet who stood up against the wickedness of false worship.  IF we likewise take to heart the inspired words of God,  "the comfort from the Scriptures," We will be able to imitate the faith of Elijaj. - ROMANS 15:4.

Next time: He Learned From His Mistakes

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