Elijah, A Series of Responses: Discouragement, Part 4

2 Kings 19:11-14

The Lord said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.”

Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake.  After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.  Then a voice said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”

And he said, “I have been very zealous for the Lord God of hosts; because the children of Israel have forsaken Your covenant, torn down Your altars, and killed Your prophets with the sword. I alone am left; and they seek to take my life.”

 

Response:

Stop. Think about the scripture for a moment. Envision it.

Pause. Reflect. Now…go.

What a powerful demonstration here.  Certainly, God can be in the midst of such glorious displays.  Yet, it was a whisper that the Lord chose to reveal himself here.   The wind may destroy,  the earthy may quake and the fire may consume. But the voice of God, even in His whisper, is more powerful than any force of the earth combined.

What a marked contrast! What a reminder!

Let us remember that displays of power and glory do not automatically change a person’s heart.

Let us remember that the voice of God is what convicts – not the voice or works of man. May we trust in His strength and not our own.

Let us remember this as we go about our days, planning our services, and ministering to the treasured hearts God loves so much.

And finally,

Let us always seek to create an atmosphere where the voice of God is welcome and where we are are inclined to listen and respond.

“He first wrapped his mantle about his face – he became subdued and awe-stricken – full of reverence. Oh! it is a great thing when a sinner is willing to wrap his face when he is confounded, and say, ‘I cannot defend my course; I am guilty.’ We know that if at our judgment-seat a man pleads guilty, he is punished; but at the judgment-seat of the gospel whoever pleads guilty is forgiven. Wrap your face.” (Spurgeon)