ELIJAH/He Took Comfort In His God - Overcome by Discouragement and Fear

If Elijah cherished any notion that the war against Baal worship was all but over, his hopes came crashing down at that moment. Jezebel was undeterred.  A great many of Elijah's faithful colleagues had already been executed on her orders, and now it seemed, he was to be next. What effect did Jezebel's threat have on Elijah?  The Bible tells us: "He became afraid." Did Elijah picture in his mind's eye the terrible death that Jezebel had in store for him? If he dwelled on such thoughts, it is no wonder that his courage failed him. At any rate, Elijah "began to go for his soul"-He ran for his life. - 1 KINGS 18:4; 19:3.

Elijah was not the only man of faith ever to be overcome by fear.  Much later,  the apostle Peter had a similar problem.  For instance, when Jesus enabled Peter to join Him in walking on water, the apostle began "looking at the windstorm." He then lost his courage  and started to sink. (Read Matthew 14:30.)   The examples of Elijah and Peter thus teach us a valuable lesson.  If we want to maintain our courage, we must not let our mind dwell on the dangers that frighten us.  We need to keep our focus on the Source of our hope and strength.

Next time: ELIJAH/He Took Comfort in His God - "It Is Enough!"

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ELIJAH/He Took Comfort in His God -An Unexpected Turn of Events

 When Ahab reached his place in Jezreel, did he give any evidence of being a changed man?  We read: "Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done and all about how he had killed all the prophets with the sword." (1 Kings 19:1)  Notice that Ahab's account of the day's events left out Elijah's God, Jehovah. A  fleshly man, Ahab saw the day's miraculous events in strictly human terms-what Elijah had done." Clearly, he had learned to respect Jehovah God, and how did his vengeful wife react? 

Jezebel was furious! Livid with rage, she sent this message to Elijah:  "So may the gods do, and so may they add to it, if at this time tomorrow I shall make your soul like the soul of each one of  them!" (1 Kings 19:2)  This was death threat of the worst kind. In effect, Jezebel was vowing that she herself should die if she could not have Elijah killed within the day to avenge her Baal prophets. Imagine Elijah being awakened from sleep in some humble lodging in Jezreel on a stormy night-only to hear the queen's messenger deliver those awful words.

Next time: ELIJAH/He Took Comfort in His God - Overcome by Discouragement and Fear

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ELIJAH/He Took Comfort in His God

 As Elijah splashed along those 19 miles (30 km)  to Jezreel, his hopes might have been high.  It may have seemed to him that a real turning point had come at last. Ahab would have to change! After what he had witnessed, surely he surely had no choice but to abandon Baal worship; to restrain his queen, Jezebel; and to stop the persecution of Jehovah's servants.

When things seem  to be going our way, it is only natural that our hopes rise. We may imagine that our lot in life will continue to improve, perhaps even thinking that our worst problems are finally behind us.  If Elijah though that way, no wonder, for he "was a man with feelings like ours." (James 5:17) Actually, though, Elijah's problems were far from over.  In fact, within hours Elijah would be so fearful, so low in spirits, that he would wish to die. What happened, and how did Jehovah help his prophet to renew his faith and his courage? Let us see.

Next time: ELIJAH/He Took Comfort in His God - An Unexpected Turn of Events

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ELIJAH/He Took Comfort in His God

 ELIJAH ran through the rain as darkness deepened.  He had a long way to go before he would reach Jezreel, and he was no  young man.  Yet, he ran on tirelessly, for "the very hand of Jehovah" was upon him.  The energy coursing through his body was surely unlike any he had ever known.  Why, he had just outpaced the team of horses that was pulling King Ahab in his royal chariot! - Read KINGS 18:46. 

Now the open road lay before him. Imagine Elijah blinking the raindrops  from his eyes as he ran, thinking back over the most eventful day of his life.  Without question, it was a glorious victory for Elijah's God, Jehovah, and for true worship.  Far behind him, lost in the gloom of the storm, lay the windswept heights of Mount Carmel, where Jehovah had used Elijah to strike a mighty and miraculous blow against Baal worship.  Hundred of Baal prophets were exposed as wicked frauds and justly executed.  Then Elijah prayed to Jehovah for an  end to the drought that had afflicted  the land for three and half years.  The rains fell! - 1 KINGS 18:18-45.

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ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited - Jehovah Brings Relief and Blessings

 What a blessing that must have been for Elijah!  To feel such strength, vitality, and stamina-perhaps more than he ever felt in his youth-must have proved a thrilling experience.  We might recall the prophecies that guarantee perfect health and vigor to faithful ones in the coming earthly Paradise.  (Read Isaiah 35:6; Luke 23:43)  As Elijah raced  along that wet road, he surely knew that he had the approval of his Father, the only true God, Jehovah! 

Jehovah is eager to bless us.  Let us reach out for his blessings; they are worth every effort we can make.  Like Elijah, we need to be watchful, carefully weighing the powerful evidence showing that Jehovah is about to act in these dangerous and urgent times.  Like Elijah, we have every reason to place complete confidence in the promises of Jehovah, "the God of truth." - PSALM 31:5. 

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ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited - Jehovah Brings Relief and Blessings

 Jehovah's prophet began to make his way along the same road Ahab had taken. A long dark, wet trek lay ahead of him. But something unusual happened next.

"The very hand of Jehovah proved to be upon Elijah, so that he girded up his hips and went running ahead of Ahab all the way to Jezreel." (1 Kings 18:46)  Clearly, "the very hand of Jehovah" was acting on Elijah in a supernatural way.  Jezreel was  19 miles (30 km) distant, and Elijah was no youth.  Just picture that prophet girding  up his long garments, tying them at his hips so that his legs would have freedom of movement, and then running along that rain-drenched road-running so fast that he caught up with, passed, and outraced the royal chariot!

Next time: ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited - Jehovah Brings Relief and Blessings

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ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited - Jehovah Brings Relief and Blessings

 The account tells us: "It came about in the meantime that the heavens themselves darkened up with clouds and wind and a great downpour began to occur. And Ahab kept riding making his way to Jezebel." (1 Kings 18:45) Events began to unfold  at remarkable speed.  While Elijah's attendant was delivering the prophet's message to Ahab, that little cloud became many, filling and darkening the sky.  A great wind blew.  At last, after three and a half years, rain fell on the soil of Israel.  The parched ground drank in the drops. As the rain became a downpour, the river Kishon swelled, no doubt washing away the blood of the executed Baal prophets.  The wayward Israel too were being given a chance to wash away the terrible stain of Baal worship in the land.

Surely Elijah hoped it would be so!  Perhaps he wondered how Ahab would respond to the dramatic events  that were unfolding.  Would Ahab repent and turn away from the pollution of Baal worship?  The events of the days had furnished powerful reasons to make such changes.  Of course, we cannot know what was going through Ahab's mind at the moment. The account simply tells us that the king "kept riding and made his way to Jezebel." Had he learned anything?  Was he resolved to change his ways?  Later events suggest that the answer is no.  Still, the day was not yet over for Ahab-nor for Elijah.

Next time:  ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited - Jehovah Brings Relief and Blessings

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ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited -Confident and Watchful

 Again, Elijah set a powerful example for us. We too live at a time when God will soon act to fulfill his stated purpose. Elijah awaited the end of a drought; God servants today await the end of  a corrupt world system of things. (1 John 2:17) Until Jehovah God acts, we must keep ever on the watch, as Elijah did.  God's own Son, Jesus advised his followers: "Keep on the watch, therefore, because you do not know on what day your Lord is coming." (Matthew 24:42)  Did Jesus mean that is his followers would be completely in the dark as to when the end would come?  No, for he spoke at length about what the world would be like in the days leading up to the end. All of us can observe the fulfillment of this detailed sign of  "the conclusion of the system of things." - Read MATTHEW 24:3-7. 

Each facet of that sign furnishes powerful, convincing evidence.  Is such evidence enough to move us to act with urgency in our service to Jehovah?  One little cloud rising from the horizon was enough to convince Elijah that Jehovah was about to act. Was the faithful prophet disappointed? 

Next time: ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited - Jehovah Brings Relief and Blessings

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ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited -Confident and Watchful

 Elijah knew of Jehovah's promise. As Jehovah's prophet and representative, he was sure that his God would fulfill his word.  Elijah was confident-so much so that it was as if he could already hear the downpour.  We might be reminded of the Bible's description of Moses:  "He continued steadfast  as seeing the one who is invisible."  Is God that real to you?  He provides ample reason for us to put that kind of faith in him and his promises. - HEBREWS 11:1, 27.

Next, notice how watchful Elijah was.  He sent his attendant back, not once or twice, but seven times! We might imagine the attendant tiring of such a repetitive task, but Elijah remained eager for a sign and did not give up. Finally, after his seventh trip, the attendant reported:  "Look! There is a small cloud like a man's palm ascending out of the sea."  Can you picture that attendant holding his arm outstretched and using is palm to gauge the size of one little cloud coming up over the horizon of the Great Sea? The attendant may  have been unimpressed.  To Elijah, though, that cloud was significant.  He now his attendant urgent directions:  "Go up, say to Ahab, 'Hitch up! and go down that the downpour may not detain you!'" -1 KINGS 18:44.

Next time: ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited - Confident and Watchful

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ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited - Confident and Watchful

 Elijah was sure that Jehovah would act to end the drought, but he was not sure when Jehovah would act. So, what did the prophet do in the meantime?  Note what the account says:  "He says to his attendant: 'God up, please. Look in the direction of the sea.' So he went  up and looked and then said: 'There is nothing at all.' And he went on to say, 'Go back,' for seven times." (1 Kings 18:43) Elijah's example teaches us at least two lessons. First, not the prophet's confidence.  Then, consider his watchfulness.

Because Elijah had confidence in Jehovah's promise, he eagerly sought the evidence  that Jehovah was about to act.  He sent his attendant up to a high vantage point to scan the horizon for any signs of impending rain. Upon his return, the attendant delivered this unenthusiastic report:  "There is nothing at all." The horizon was clear, and the sky, evidently cloudless.  Now, did you  notice something unusual?  Remember, Elijah had just told King Ahab: "There is the sound of the turmoil of a downpour."  How could the prophet say such a thing when there were no rain clouds to be seen? 

Next time: ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited - Confident and Watchful

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ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited - A Prayerful Attitude

 Earlier, Jehovah had said: "I am determined to give rain upon the surface of the ground." (1 Kings 18:1) Elijah prayed for the fulfillment of Jehovah's stated will, much as Jesus taught his followers to pray some one thousand years later. - MATTHEW 6:9, 10.

Elijah's example teaches us much about prayer.  Foremost in Elijah thoughts was the accomplishment of God's will.  When we pray, it is good to remember:  "No matter what it is that we ask according  to [God's]will, he hears us." (1 John 5:14) Clearly, then, we need to know what God's will is in order to pray acceptably-a good reason to make Bible study a part of our daily life.  Surely Elijah also wanted to see an end to the drought because of all the suffering among the people of his homeland.  His heart was likely full of thanksgiving after the miracle he had seen Jehovah perform that day.  We likewise want our prayers to reflect heartfelt thanksgiving and concern for the welfare of others. -  Read 2 CORINTHIANS 1:11; PHILIPPIANS 4:6.  

Next time: ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited - Confident and Watchful

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ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited - A Prayerful Attitude

 Elijah approached Ahab and said: "Go up, eat and drink; for there is the sound of the turmoil of a downpour." Had this wicked king learned anything from the day's events?  The account does not say specifically, but we find no words of repentance, no request  that  the prophet help him approach Jehovah and seek forgiveness. No, Ahab simply "proceeded to go up to eat and drink." (1 Kings 18:41, 42)  What about Elijah?

"As for Elijah, we went to the top of Mount Carmel and began crouching  to the earth and keeping his face put between his knees."  While Ahab went off to fill his stomach, Elijah had an opportunity to pray to his heavenly Father.  Note the humble posture described here-Elijah on the ground with his head bowed low that his face was near his knees.  What was Elijah doing?  We need not guess.  The Bible at James 5:18 tells us that Elijah prayed for the drought to end. Likely he was offering such a prayer on top of Carmel.

Next time: ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited -A Prayerful Attitude

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ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited

 It had been a bad day for Ahab and other Baal worshippers.  The pagan religion that Ahab and his wife, Queen Jezebel, championed in the ten-tribe kingdom of Israel had been dealt a severe blow. Baal had been exposed as a fraud. That lifeless god had failed to light a simple fire in response to the frantic pleas, dances, and ritual bloodletting of his prophets. Baal had failed to protect those  450 men from  their well-deserved execution. But the false god had failed in something else, and that failure was about to be made complete. For over three years, the Baal prophets had implored their god to end the drought afflicting the land, but Baal had been unable to do so.  Soon, Jehovah himself would demonstrate his supremacy by ending the drought. - 1 KINGS 16:30-17:1; 18:1-40. 

When, though, would Jehovah act?  How would Elijah conduct himself until then?  And what can we learn from this man of faith?  Let us see as we examine this account. - Read 1 KINGS 18:41-45

Next time: ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited - A Prayerful Attitude

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ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited

 ELIJAH longed to be alone with his heavenly Father.  But the throngs around him had just seen this true prophet call down fire from heaven, and many of the people were no doubt eager to curry favor with him.  Before Elijah could ascend to the heights of Mount Carmel and approach  Jehovah God in private prayer, he faced an unpleasant task.  He had to speak to King Ahab.

The two men could hardly have been more different.  Ahab, bedecked in royal finery, was a greedy-willed apostate. Elijah wore the official garb of a prophet-a simple basic robe, possibly of animal skin or of woven camel or goat hair.  He was a man of great courage, integrity, and faith.  The day that was now drawing to a close had revealed much about the character of each man. 

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He Stood Up for Pure Worship/Elijah - How Long Was the Drought in Elijah's Day?

 Jehovah's prophet Elijah announced to King Ahab that the long drought would end soon.  That happened   "in the third year"-evidently counting from the day Elijah first announced the drought. (1 Kings 18:1) Jehovah sent rain soon after Elijah said that He would. Some might conclude that the drought ended during the course of its third year and that it was therefore less than three years long.  However, both Jesus and James tell us the drought lasted "three years and six months." (Luke 4:25; James 5:17) Is this a contradiction?

Not at all. You see the dry season in ancient Israel was quite long, lasting up to six months. No doubt Elijah came to Ahab to announce to announce the drought when the dry season was already proving to be unusually long and severe.  In effect, the drought had begun nearly a half a year earlier. Thus, when Elijah announced  the end of the drought "in the third year" from his previous announcement, the drought had already lasted nearly three and a half years.  The full "three years and six months" had elapsed by the tie all the people assembled to witness the great test on Mount Carmel

Consider then, the timing of Elijah's first visit to Ahab. The people believed that Baal was "the rider of the clouds," the god who would bring rains to end the dry season. If the dry season  was unusually long, people likely wondered:  'Where is Baal? When will he bring the rains? Elijah's announcement that neither rain  nor dew would occur until he said so must have been devastating to those Baal Worshippers. - 1 KINGS 17:1.

Next time: ELIJAH/He Watched and He Waited

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He Stood Up for True Worship/Elijah - The Answer

 Modern-day critics may decry the conclusion to this test on Mount Carmel. Some people may worry lest religious zealots use  it to justify violent acts of religious intolerance.  And sadly, there are many violent religious fanatic today.   However, Elijah was no fanatic.  He was acting on Jehovah's behalf in a just execution.  Furthermore, genuine Christians know that they cannot follow Elijah's course in taking a sword to the wicked. Rather, they follow the standard for all disciples of Jesus as found in Christ's words to Peter:  "Return your sword to its place, for all those who take the sword will perish by the sword." (Matthew 26:52) Jehovah will use his Son to carry out divine justice in the future. 

The responsibility of  a true Christian is to lead a life of faith.  (John 3:16)  One way to do so is to imitate faithful men like Elijah.  He worshipped Jehovah exclusively and urged others to do the same.  He boldly exposed as  a fraudulent religion that Satan used to lure people away from Jehovah. And he trusted Jehovah to settle matters instead of relying on his own abilities and will. Elijah stood up for pure worship. May all of us imitate his faith!

Next time: He Stood Up for Pure Worship/Elijah - How Long Was the Drought in Elijah's Day?

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He Stood Up for Pure Worship/Elijah - The Answer

 Before Elijah's prayer, the crowds there might have wondered if Jehovah would turn out to be  an empty lie as Baal turned out to be.  After the prayer, though, there was no time for wondering.  The account says: "At that the fire of Jehovah came falling and went eating up the burnt offering and the pieces of wood and the stones and the dust, and the water that was in the trench it licked up." (1 Kings 18:38) What a spectacular answer! And how did the people respond?

"Jehovah is the true God! Jehovah is the true God!" they cried out, all of them. (1 Kings 18:39) At last they saw the truth.  However, they had not as yet shown any faith. Frankly, to admit that Jehovah is the true God after seeing fire from heaven in response to a prayer is not an impressive demonstration of faith. So Elijah asked more of them to do what they should have done many years earlier-obey the Law of Jehovah.  God's Law said that false prophets and idolaters should be put to death.  (Deuteronomy 13:5-9) These Baal priests were committed enemies of Jehovah God, they deliberately worked against his purposes.  Did they deserve mercy?  Well, what mercy had they ever granted to all those innocent children who were burned alive  as sacrifices to Baal?  (Read Proverbs 21:13; Jeremiah 19:5) Those men were well beyond the reach of mercy!  So Elijah ordered that they be executed, and executed they were. 1 KINGS 18:40.

Next time: He Stood Up for Pure Worship/Elijah - The Answer

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He Stood Up for Pure Worship/Elijah - The Answer

 Late in the afternoon came Elijah's turn to offer a sacrifice.  He repaired and altar to Jehovah that had been torn down, no doubt by enemies of pure worship.  He used 12 stones, perhaps reminding many in the 12-tribe nation of Israel that the Law given to al 12 tribes was still binding on them.  Then he laid out his sacrifice and had everything doused with water, possibly obtained from the Mediterranean Sea nearby. He even had a trench dug around the altar and filled it with water.  Just as he given the prophets of Baal every advantage, he gave Jehovah every disadvantage such was his confidence in his God. - 1 KINGS 18:30-35.

When everything was ready, Elijah said a prayer. Eloquent in its simplicity, the prayer showed clearly where Elijah's  priorities lay. First and foremost, he wanted it known that Jehovah, not this Baal, was "God in Israel." Second, he wanted everyone to know that his own role was that of Jehovah's servant, all glory and credit go to God.  Finally, he showed that he still cared about his people, for he was eager to see Jehovah turn  "their heart back." (1 Kings 18:36, 37) Despite all the misery they had caused by their faithlessness, Elijah still loved them. In our own prayers to God, can we manifest similar humility, concern for God's name, and compassion for others who need help? 

Next time: He Stood Up for Pure Worship/Elijah - The Answer -Continue

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He Stood Up for Pure Worship/Elijah - A Climatic Test

 The Baal prophets proceeded to set up their sacrifice and call on their god.  "O Baal, answer us!" They cried again and again. They kept at it as the minutes and then the hours passed by. "But there was no voice, and there was no one answering," the Bible says, at noon Elijah began to mock them, assert sarcastically that Baal must be too busy to answer them, that he was relieving himself in the privy, or that he was napping and someone needed to wake him up.  "Call at the top of your voice," Elijah urged those charlatans. Clearly, he saw this Baal worship as ridiculous fakery, and he wanted God's people   to see it for the fraud that it was. - 1 KINGS 18:26, 27.

In response, the Baal priests became even more frenzied, "calling at the top of their voice and cutting themselves according to their custom with daggers and with lances, until they caused blood to flow out upon them."  All to no avail!  "There was no voice, and there was no one answering, and there was no paying of attention." (1 Kings 18:18, 29) Indeed, there was no Baal. He was invention designed by Satan to lure people away from Jehovah.  The truth is, choosing any master other than Jehovah leads to disappointment, even shame.  - Read PSALM 25:3; 115:4-8. 

Next time: He Stood Up for True Worship/Elijah - The Answer

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He Stood Up for True Worship /Elijah - A Climatic Test

 Elijah next proposed a test.  It was simplicity itself.  The Baal priests were to set up and altar and lay out a sacrifice on it; then they were to pray to their god to light the fire. Elijah would do the same.  He said that the "God that answers by fire is the true God."  Elijah well knew who was the true God. So strong was his faith that he did not hesitate to give his opponents every advantage.  He let those Baal priests go first. So they chose their bull for sacrifice and approached Baal. - 1 KINGS 18:24, 25.

We do not live in age of miracles.  However, Jehovah has not changed. We can be just as confident in him as Elijah was.  For instance, when others disagree with what the Bible teaches, we need not fear to let them go ahead and have their say.  Like Elijah, we can look to the true God to settle the matter. We do that by relying, not on ourselves, but on his inspired Word, which is designed "for setting things straight." - 2 TIMOTHY 3:16. 

Next time: He Stood Up for True Worship/Elijah - A Climatic Test-Conclusion

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He Stood Up for Pure Worship/Elijah - "Limping"-How?

 The heights of Mount Carmel commanded a sweeping view-from the torrent valley Kishon below to the Great Sea (Mediterranean Sea) nearby and to the mountains of Lebanon on the far northern horizon.  But as the sun rose on this climatic day, the vista was grim.  A deathly pall hung over the once fertile land that Jehovah had given to the children of Abraham.  It was now a land baked hard by the merciless sun, ruined by the folly of God's own people! As those people thronged, Elijah approached them and spoke: "How long will  you be limping upon two different opinions?  If Jehovah is the true God, go following him; but if Baal is, go following him." - 1 KINGA 18:21.

What did Elijah mean by the expression "limping upon two different opinions"? Well, those people did not realize that they had to choose between the worship of  Jehovah and the worship of Baal.  They thought they could have it both ways-that they could appease  Baal with their revolting rituals and still ask favors of Jehovah God.  Perhaps they reasoned that Baal would bless their crops and herds, while "Jehovah of armies" would protect them in battle.  (1 Samuel 17:45) They had forgotten a basic truth-one that still eludes many today.  Jehovah does not share his worship with anyone. He demands and is worthy of exclusive devotion.  Any worship of him that is mixed with some other form of worship is unacceptable to him, even offensive! - Read EXODUS 20:5.

So those Israelites were "limping" along like a man trying to follow two paths at once. Many people today make a similar mistake, allowing other "Baal" to creep into their life and push aside the worship of God. Heeding Elijah's clarion call to stop limping can help us to reexamine our own priorities and worship.

Next time: He Stood Up for Pure Worship/Elijah - A Climatic Test

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He Stood Up for Pure Worship/Elijah - A Long Struggle Reaches a Climax

 What made Baal worship so offensive? It seduced Israel, luring many away from the true God.  It was a disgusting and brutal religion. It involved male and female temple prostitution, sexual orgies, and even the sacrifice of children. Jehovah responded by sending Elijah to Ahab to announce a drought that would last until God's prophet proclaimed its end. (1 Kings17:1) Several years passed before Elijah showed himself to Ahab and told him to gather the people and the Baal prophets to Mount Carmel.

What, though, does this struggle mean for us today?  Some might assume that a story about Baal worship is irrelevant now, since we do not see temples and altars to Baal around us, but this account is not mere ancient history.  (Romans 15:4)  The word "Baal" Means "owner" or "master." Jehovah told his people that they should choose him as their "baal," or  husbandly owner. (Isaiah 54:5) Would you not agree that people still serve a variety of masters other than God Almighty?  Whether people use their life in the service of money, career, recreation, sexual pleasure. or any of the countless gods that are worshipped instead of Jehovah, they choose a master.  (Matthew 6:24; read Romans 6:16.) In a sense, the most potent elements that characterize Baal worship are thriving today. Reflecting  on that ancient context between Jehovah and Baal can  help us to make a wise choice about whom we will serve.

Next time: He Stood Up for Pure Worship/Elijah - "Limping"-How?

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He Stood Up for True Worship/Elijah - A Long Struggle Reaches a Climax

 For much of his life, Elijah helplessly watched as the best thing about his homeland and his people was pushed aside and trampled underfoot. You see, Israel was in the grip of a long struggle, a war between pure religion and false, between the worship of Jehovah God and the idolatry of the surrounding nations.  In Elijah's day, that struggle had taken an especially ugly turn.

King Ahab had deeply offended Jehovah. He married Jezebel, the daughter of the king of Sidon.  Jezebel was determined  to spread  Baal worship in the land of Israel and to eradicate the worship of Jehovah. Ahab quickly fell under her influence.  He built a temple and an altar to Baal and took the lead in bowing down to this pagan god.  - 1 KINGS 16:30-33.

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He Stood Up for True Worship/Elijah

 Ahead of that solitary prophet lay a day like no other in his life. As Elijah watched, the stage was being set for one of the most dramatic confrontations between good and evil that the world has ever seen.  How did he feel as that day dawned? He was not impervious to fear, being  "a man with feelings like ours." (Read James 5:17.) We can be sure, at least, of this much:  Surrounded by the faithless people, their apostate king, and those murderous priests, Elijah keenly felt that he was all alone. - 1 KINGS 18:22.

What, though, had brought Israel to this crisis? Ad what does this account have to do with you?  Consider Elijah's example of faith and how practical it can be for us today.

Next time: He Stood Up for True Worship/Elijah -A Long Struggle Reaches  a Climax

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He Stood Up for Pure Worship/Elijah

 ELIJAH looked out over the crowd as they trudged up the slopes of Mount Carmel. Even of the dim of light of early morning, the poverty and want afflicting these people were plain to see.  The drought, three and half years long, had left its mark on them.

Among then strutted the 450 prophets of Baal, full of pride and burning hatred for Elijah, Jehovah's prophet.  Queen Jezebel had executed man servants of Jehovah, but this man still stood firm against Baal worship. Ah, for how long? Perhaps those priests reasoned that a lone man could never prevail against all of them.  (1 Kings 18:4, 19, 20) King Ahab  had also come riding in his royal chariot. He too bore no love for Elijah.

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They Saw Love in Action

 In May  2019,  congregation meetings began to be held in their village. By then, a regular pioneer couple had moved into the village. They made it their goal to teach the three siblings to read and to write braille, even though this couple did not know how to do it themselves. They went a library to learn about the braille system and to study the methods used to teach it.

In a few months, the three siblings could read braille with ease, and that allowed them to make further spiritual progress.  Now Yomara, Marcelo, and Hive serve as regular pioneers. Marcelo is a ministerial servant. All week long, they are very involved in spiritual activities. Their enthusiasm is contagious.

The three siblings are grateful for the loving support of the congregation.  "From our very first contact, the Witnesses  have shown us true Christian love, say Yomara.  "We have wonderful friends in our local congregation, and we are part of an international brotherhood bound together in love," adds Marcelo.  Yomara and her brothers long for the day when they will see the earth transformed into paradise. - PSALM 37:10, 11; ISAIAH 35:5.

Next time: They Saw Love in Action

From the jw.org publications

They Saw Love in Action

 Yomara and her brothers-Marcelo and Hiver-live in a small village in Guatemala. Yomara started studying the Bible with the Witnesses, and eventually her brothers joined in the study. But there was a problem. All three siblings are blind, and they could read braille. Therefore, their Bible teacher would read the study material and the Bible verses of the lesson to them.

Congregation meetings presented another challenge.  On their own, they could not make the40-minute trip to the nearest Kingdom Hall. But the brothers in the congregation arranged to take them to all the meetings.  And when the siblings started to give student assignments at the midweek meeting, the brothers helped them memorize their presentations.

Next time: They Saw Love in Action 

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LIFE STORY-UNITED STATES-FAITH AMID PROSPERITY/AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

 The years have flown by-more quickly than a weaver's shuttle." We now work with others at world headquarters in Warwick, New York, and we have the joy of continuing to serve with people who truly love one another.  We are happy, contented, and delighted to do what we can to support our King, Christ Jesus, who will soon reward his countless faithful ones. - MATTHEW 25:34.

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LIFE STORY -UNITED STATES-FAITH AND PROSPERITY/AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

 We were in Kenya for less than a year.  Then in 1997 we were invited to Bethel in Brooklyn, New York.  Now we were in a country where there was material prosperity, which can bring its own problems.  (Proverbs 30:8, 9)  But even in such a country, spirituality abounds.  Our brothers use their time and assets, not enrich themselves, but to support the good work of Jehovah's organization.

Over the years, we have seen  the faith of our fellow Witnesses in a variety of circumstances.  In Ireland, faith amid a civil strife. In Africa, faith amid poverty and isolation.  In the United States, faith amid prosperity.  How joyful  Jehovah must be as he looks down and sees people who show their love for him in all sorts of situations! 

Next time: LIFE STORY -UNITED STATES-FAITH AND PROSPERITY/AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

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LIFE STORY -KENYA-THE BROTHERS WERE PATIENT WITH ME

 In 1996 we were assigned to the Kenya branch.  This was my first time back in the country since my visit mentioned at the outset. We lived at Bethel.  And among the visitors to the property were vervet monkeys.  They would "mug" the sisters who carried fruit. On day, a sister at Bethel had left her window open. When she came home, she found a family of monkeys enjoying the food they found in her room. She screamed and ran out the door.  The monkeys shriek and jumped out the window. 

Pauline and I joined a Swahili congregation. After a short time, I was assigned to conduct the congregation book study (now called Congregation Bible Study). However, ever my grasp on the language was still at the level of an infant. I would the material in advance, so I was able to read the questions. But if the comments from the audience varied even slightly from what was written, I did not understand them.  It was so awkward!  I felt sorry for the brothers and sisters. I was impressed that they calmly accepted the arrangement with patience and humility. 

Next time: LIFE STORY -UNTED STATES-FAITH AND PROSPERITY/AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

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LIFE STORY -NIGERIA-LEARNING A NEW CULTURE/AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS -Conclusion

 Awkwardly, I muddled through the rest of the introduction and then did some research. I learned that the sister had acted in accord with a traditional custom that at the time was still in practiced in some parts of the country.  Men would prostrate themselves in the same way. It was a way of showing respect.  It was not  worship; there are Scriptural precedents.  (1 Samuel 24:8) I was glad that I had not, in my ignorance, said anything that might embarrass my sister. 

We met many Nigerians who had shown remarkable faithfulness over the years.  Consider Isaiah Adagbona.  He learned the truth as a young man, but then he was diagnosed with leprosy.  He was sent to a leper colony where he was the only Witness. Despite opposition, he helped more than 30 lepers to accept the truth and established a congregation at the colony.

Next time: LIFE STORY -KENYA-THE BROTHERS WERE PATIENT WITH ME

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LIFE STORY -NIGERIA-LEARNING A NEW CULTURE/AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

 We were in Sierra Leone for nine years. Then we were transferred to Bethel in Nigeria. We were now in a large branch office. I was doing the same type of office work that I had done in Sierra Leone, but for Pauline, it was a big change and a difficult one. She had been spending 130 hours every month in the ministry, and she had productive Bible studies. Now she was assigned to the sewing room, where she spent her days repairing damaged clothing. It took a while to adjust, but she to realize that others deeply appreciated the work she was doing, and she concentrated on taking opportunities to encourage fellow Bethlelites.

The Nigerian culture was new to us, and we had much to learn.  On one occasion, a brother came to my office to introduce a sister who had just been accepted to Bethel. As I reached out to shake her hand, she prostrated herself at my feet.  I was stunned!  Two scriptures flashed through my mind: Acts 10:25, 26 and Revelation 19:10. I wondered, 'Should I tell her not to do that? At the same time, I realized that she had been accepted to Bethel, she knew what the Bible teaches.

Next time: LIFE STORY -NIGERIA-LEARNING A NEW CULTURE/AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

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LIFE STORY-SIERRA LEONE-FAITH AMID POVERTY /AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

 We lived in missionary home with 11 wonderful people. We shared one kitchen, three toilets, two showers,  one telephone, one washing machine and one dryer. Electricity outages were frequent and unpredictable. Rats invaded the roof space, and cobras slithered into the basement.

Though living conditions were not ideal, the ministry was a joy. People respected the Bible and listened attentively.  Many studied and accepted the truth.  The locals addressed me as "Mister Robert." Pauline was "Missus Robert." After a while, though, as work at the branch office took more of my time and I was out in the field ministry less, people began calling Pauline "Missus Pauline." I became "Mister Pauline." Pauline liked that!

Many of the brothers were poor, but Jehovah always cared for their needs, sometimes in remarkable ways.  (Matthew 6:33) I remember one sister who had only enough money to buy food for that day for herself and her children, but she gave it all to a sick brother who lacked the money to buy malaria medication.  Later that day, a woman came unexpectedly to the sister and paid her to style her hair. There were many situations like that.

Next time: LIFE STORY -NIGERIA-LEARING A NEW CULTURE/AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

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LIFE STORY -NORTHERN IRELAND-"LAND OF THE BOMB AND THE BULLET"/AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

 We were in circuit work for a time, serving our brothers in Belfast, Londonderry, and other other hot spots. We were moved  by the faith of our brothers and sisters who had abandoned deeply entrenched religious beliefs, prejudices, and hatreds to serve Jehovah.  How he blessed and protected them!

I had lived in Ireland for ten years.  Then in 1e981e we were invited to attend the 72nd class of Gilead. After graduating, we were assigned to Sierra Leone, West Africa.

Next time: LIFE STORY-SIERRA LEON-FAITH AND POVERTY/AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

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LIFE STORY-NORTHERN IRELAND-"THE LAND OF THE BOMB AND THE BULLET"/ AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

 Still, there were dangerous situations.  One day, Denis Carrigan, also a pioneer, and I preached in a nearby town where there were no Witnesses ad where we had been only once before. A woman accused us of being undercover British soldiers, perhaps because neither of us spoke with an Irish accent.  The accusation frightened us. Just being friendly to soldiers could get you killed or kneecapped-shot through the knee. As we stood outside, cold and alone and waiting for the bus, we saw a car pull  up to the cafe' where the woman had accused us. She came out and talked to the two men in the car, pointing at us excitedly.  The men then slowly drove up to  us and asked us a few questions about the bus schedule.  When the bus arrived, they spoke to the driver. We couldn't hear what they were saying. There were no other passengers, so we were convinced  that arrangements were being made to deal with  us outside of town. But that didn't happen. As I stepped off the bus, I asked the driver: "Those lads back there, were they wondering about us?"  He replied: "I know who you are, and I told them. Don't you worry You're quite safe."

In 1978 at a district assembly in Dublin, I met Pauline Lomax, a special pioneer who was visiting from England. She was a spiritual, humble, and lovely sister. She and her brother, Ray, had known the truth all their life. A year later, Pauline and I were married and we continued special pioneering in Ballymena, Northern Ireland.

Next time: LIFE STORY - NORTHERN IRELAND "LAND OF THE BOMB AND THE BULLET/AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

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LIFE STORY - NORTHERN IRELAND-"THE LAND OF OF THE BOMB AND THE BULLET"/AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

 In 1972, I got baptized.  A year later, I  began to pioneer and joined a small congregation in Newry, Northern Ireland.  I rented an isolated stone cottage on a mountainside. There were cows in the adjacent field, and I practiced my talks in front of theme.  They appeared to listen attentively while chewing their cud.  They could offer counsel, they helped me with audience contact.  In 1974, I was appointed as a special pioneer and was joined by Nigel Pitt, who became a lifelong friend.

"The Troubles" plagued Northern Ireland at that time. Some aptly labeled the North "the land of the bomb and the bullet." street fighting, sniper attacks, shootings, and car bombings were common.  Political and religious issues were intertwined.  However, both Protestants and Catholics recognized that the Witnesses do not take sides in politics, so we were able to preach freely and safely. Householders often knew when  and where there would be violence, and they could warn us so that we could keep clear of it.

Next time: LIFE STORY -NORTHERN IRELAND -"THE LAND OF THE BOMB AND THE BULLET"

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LIFE STORY - NORTHERN IRELAND-"THE LAND OF THE BOMB AND THE BULLE/AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

 When I returned to London, I contacted my friend's mother, and she gave me a Bible.  Later, when I went to Amsterdam, the Netherlands, a witness saw me reading  it under a streetlight, and he helped me to learn more.  Next, I went to Dublin, Ireland and found the branch office of Jehovah's Witnesses.  I knocked at the front door.  That's where I met Arthur Matthews, a wise, experienced brother.  I asked for  Bible study, and  he agreed to study with me.

I threw myself into my study voraciously reading the books and the bound volumes that the Witnesses published. And, of course, I read the Bible itself. It was so exciting!  At congregation meetings, I saw that even children knew the answers to questions that learned me pondered for centuries. 'Why is there evil? Who is God? What happens at death?'   I associated exclusively with the Witnesses. That was easy because I didn't know anyone else in the entire country.  They helped me to come love Jehovah and to want to do his will.

Next time: LIFE STORY - NORTHERN IRELAND-"THE LAND OF THE BOMB AND THE BULLET -Continue

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LIFE STORY -I Have Seen Faithful Ones Thrive/ AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

 So because of what I had seen and heard, the Bible's teaching that an evil spirit creature was manipulating earth's affairs made sense to me.  But where was God in all of this?  I wanted to know. 

In the months that followed, I found the answer.  And over time, I also came to know many men and women who, under all sorts of circumstances, have proved faithful to the one true God.

Next time: LIFE STORY - NORTHERN IRELAND-"THE LAND OF THE BOMB AND THE BULLET/AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

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LIFE STORY -I Have See Faithful Ones Thrive /AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS - Continue

 My father had been a pilot in the United States Air Force.  So as a youngster, I was keenly aware that nuclear war was a real possibility.  The military had its finger on the trigger.  The war in Vietnam overshadowed my college years in California.  I joined student protests. Police wit clubs chased us and we ran, choking and half-blinded because of tear gas,  it was  a time of turmoil and rebellion.  There were political assassinations, protests, and riots. Ideas and opinions swirled like leaves in a windstorm. It was all so confusing.

In 1970, I took a job on the north coast of Alaska and made a lot of  money.  Then  I flew to London, bought a motorcycle, and rode south wit no destination in mind. Months later, I reached Africa. Along the way, I met people who also wished they could get away-break free somehow and run from the circumstances that enchained them.

Next time: LIFE STORY -I Have Seen Faithful Ones Thrive/AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS 

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KUFE STORY-I Have Seen Faithful Ones Thrive/ AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

 YOU can probably  remember conversations you had that were especially important to you.  For me, there was one that took place about 50 years ago while a friend and I were sitting beside a campfire in Kenya.  Tanned and toughened from months of travel, were discussing a movie that touched on a religious theme when my friend said, "It represented the Bible."

I laughed-my friend did not strike me as a religious person.  "What do you know about the Bible?"  I asked.  He was not quick to answer. Finally he told me that his mother was one of a Jehovah's Witnesses; he had learned some things from her. Curious, I pressed him to tell me more.

Our conversation lasted far into the night.  My friend told me that the Bible identifies Satan as the ruler of the world.  (John 14:30) Perhaps you have known that all your life, but for me, the idea was both new and intriguing.  I had always heard that benevolent God was in charge of the world. But that didn't tally with what I had seen in life. Although I was only 26 years old, I had seen a lot that troubled me. 

Next time: LIFE STORY -I Have Seen Faithful Ones Thrive/ AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

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Cherish God's Gift of Life -BE REASONABLE

 Many of the choices we make regarding our health and medical treatment are rightly determined by our Bible-trained conscience. (Acts 24:16; 1Timothy 3:9)  When making decisions and discussing them with others, we do well to apply the precious principle recorded at Philippians 4:5: "Let your reasonableness become known to all men." When we are reasonable, we do not become  overly  concerned with out physical health; nor do we pressure others into adopting our viewpoint. We love and respect our  brothers and sisters, even if the decisions they make are different from ours. - ROMANS 14:10-12.

We show our gratitude to Jehovah, the Source of life, by safeguarding our life and by giving him our best. (Revelation 4:11)  For now, we must deal with sicknesses and calamities. But this is not the life our Creator intended for us. Soon he will give us everlasting life without pain and death.  (Revelation 21:4) In the meantime, how good it is to be alive and to serve our loving heavenly Father, Jehovah.

Next time: LIFE STORY-I Have Seen Faithful Ones Thrive/ AS TOLD BY ROBERT LANDIS

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Cherish God's Gift of Life - PREPARE TO ABSTAIN FROM BLOOD

 Because we appreciate the gift of life, we fill out a durable power of attorney (advanced healthy-care directive) and carry it with us at all times.  By means of this document we express our wished regarding blood transfusions and some  some medical treatments. Is your durable power of attorney current? If you need to fill out or update one, do not procrastinate. Clearly expressing our wishes in writing will help to avoid causing unnecessary delays in our treatment. We will also help the medical staff avoid any misunderstandings that can harm us. 

Regardless of how young or  how healthy we are, we are all susceptible to accidents and sickness. (Ecclesiastes 9:11)   Therefore, it would certainly be wise to fill out a durable power of attorney. If you are unsure about how to fill out this document, ask your local elders to help you. They strive to be familiar with how to fill out the document, but they will not make medical decisions for you.  That is your responsibility.  (Galatians 6:4, 5)  They can, however, help you to understand your options and to express your wished in writing.

Next time: Cherish God's Gift of Life - BE REASONABLE

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Cherish God's Gift of Life - PREPARE TO ABSTAIN FROM BLOOD

 Jehovah's Witnesses are well-known for their respect for the sacredness of blood. We obey Jehovah's law regarding blood by refusing a blood transfusion, even during a medical emergency.  (Acts 15:28, 29) However, that does not mean that we want to die.  On the contrary, we cherish God's gift of life.  We seek the help of medical professionals who are willing to provide high-quality care that does not involve a blood transfusion.

we can reduce the likelihood of needing a serious procedure by following the health suggestions mentioned earlier in this article.  The healthier we are, the more resilient we will be during and after surgery that we must undergo. We can also reduce the risk of needing an emergency surgery by removing safety hazards at home and at work and by strictly obeying traffic laws.

Next time: Cherish God's Gift of Life - PREPARE TO ABSTAIN FROM BLOOD

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Cherish God's Gift of Life - WHEN CALAMITY STRIKES

 At times, we are not able to prevent life-threatening events. This is especially true of natural disasters, epidemics, and violent conflicts.  However, when such calamities strike, we can try to reduce risks and improve our likelihood of survival by obeying curfews, evacuation orders, and emergency restrictions.  (Romans 13:1, 5-7) Some threats can be anticipated, so we do well to follow any guidelines issued by local authorities to help us prepare for a disaster. For instance, we may find it practical to store a supply of water and nonperishable food and a basic first aid kit.  

What should we do  if a contagious disease is spreading where we live?  We should obey emergency regulations, such as those regarding washing our hands, social distancing, wearing a mask, and quarantining.  Our diligence in these areas shows how deeply we appreciate God's gift of life.  

During emergencies, inaccurate information may circulate among friends, among neighbors, and in the media.  Rather than believe "every word" we hear, we do well to listen to the most reliable governmental and medical sources available.  (Read Proverbs 14:15.)  The Governing Body and the branch offices make every effort   to obtain accurate information before giving direction regarding congregation meetings and the preaching work.  (Hebrews 13:17) By being cooperative, we protect ourselves and others from harm.  We may also enhance the congregation's reputation in the community. - 1 PETER 2:12.

Next time: Cherish God's Gift of Life - PREPARE TO ABSTAIN FROM BLOOD

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