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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