Expectations
In Chapters 17 and 18, God worked spectacular miracles for Elijah, bringing a child back to life and setting a soaking altar on fire. Elijah began to expect God’s power to be displayed in dramatic and spectacular ways. When his expectations weren’t met, he became fearful and depressed, and then in verse 10, bitter and angry.
I know this has happened to me. I had my own expectations of what I thought God’s plan was (or even more arrogantly, what I thought God’s plan should be). When things failed to work out the way I thought they were supposed to, I became very angry at God, just as Elijah was. I prayed for great changes, but failed to listen to what God was trying to tell me.
In verses 11-13, a terrible windstorm, an earthquake, and a fire hit the mountain where Elijah is waiting for God, but the Bible states that the Lord was not in any of these. Then Elijah heard a gentle whisper, and the Lord was in that whisper. He told Elijah what He wanted him to do, and gave him hope for what his future would hold.
When we feel discouraged, afraid, or angry, we need to be listening for God’s whisper. If we can set aside our own expectations and open ourselves to listening for His voice, He will give us the guidance and hope we need.
Amen!
Kris:
Thanks for reminding us to listen for the still, quiet voice. Appreciate all you to do at CCC, and for your being an awesome Sister in Christ.
T