1 Kings 19:15 The Lord said to him, “Go back the way you came, and go to the Desert of Damascus. When you get there, anoint Hazael king over Aram.
Again today’s verses seem to be about helping Elijah gain perspective. Back in verses 10 and 14, he says in part, “…I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.” When you feel like the only one (or the only one left), it can be very difficult on the psyche. Elijah’s reaction in this chapter is proof of that.
1 Kings 19:16 Also, anoint Jehu son of Nimshi king over Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet.
In yesterday’s verses, God helped Elijah gain perspective on how big his God is. Today, the Lord is helping him gain perspective on the fact that he’s not the only one, he’s not in this alone. In the course of three verses, the Lord mentions three specific people still fighting for Him, still in positions of authority. In verse 18, he mentions that there are still seven thousand in Israel who have not submitted to Baal. Elijah is not alone. Not even close.
1 Kings 19:17 Jehu will put to death any who escape the sword of Hazael, and Elisha will put to death any who escape the sword of Jehu.
Lord of all Creation, Thank You that You see us, You know us, You love us. Thank You that no matter how alone we have convinced ourselves we are, with You, we are never alone. Not even close. Thank You that You never leave us nor forsake us. Never. Thank You. Amen.
1 Kings 19:18 Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and whose mouths have not kissed him.”
Have a blessed day.