Not My Will, But Yours, Lord

Read 1 Kings 19:1-18

During a pivotal period in Israel’s history, God sent Elijah to challenge a wicked ruler and guide God’s people away from being corrupted by Baal’s nature worship. As a result, Ahab’s wife, Jezebel, desired Elijah’s death. The queen’s threat has reached Elijah’s attention, and he has fled to the wilderness. The prophet was distraught, terrified, discouraged, and lonely. He was so powerless that he wished for death. An angel of the Lord who ministered to him visited Elijah. When he was strong enough, he traveled for forty days and forty nights until he arrived at Horeb, God’s mountain. He walked into a cave and slept there for the night (vv. 1-5).

On the same mountain where Moses first met God, Elijah met God. Through a gentle whisper, the Lord God pulled him up by His presence. In his situation, he expected God to respond in ways he imagined would be more remarkable. Instead, God used a roaring fire, a tremendous earthquake, and a mountain-ripping hurricane wind. These may have been Elijah’s ideas for how God would display His magnificence to him and the nonbelievers, but God was nowhere to be found in the wind, earthquake, or fire. God revealed His character and expressed His presence in a gentle whisper (v. 10-13).

We anticipate God to move in the direction we desire. We anticipate Him to fit His ways and goals with ours unconsciously. God is far greater than the person we thought was the best. He is more than a God who responds to prayers. God is a gentle and loving parent who longs to bless us with His presence. He will come to us in unexpected ways. Allow God to restore our spirits and help us see life’s challenges through His eyes.

Do you wish to be renewed by God’s presence today? You’ll find what you’re looking for if you look hard enough. Start reading and meditating on His word.