Devotional - May 14, 2025
Scripture: 1 Kings 19:12-13 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?”
With God's help, Elijah makes it to the mountain. I like how God helps us, even in the process of seeking God. God helps Elijah get to the mountain. God gives us what we need amidst all our confusion, so we can meet with God. Be aware of this, if you don't believe God acts in this way, you can miss it. Elijah is on the mountain of God, Mt Horeb, and there comes an earth shattering (literally) series of events. Each event is followed by an odd phrase, but God was not in... It isn't until there came a gentle whisper, a still small voice that God indwells the moment. One of my favorite interpretations of this moment is God being like a gentle breeze. Have you ever been in contemplation, maybe on the beach, by a field, or in the woods, and a gentle breeze came through? It bears the power of the wind, but moves in ways that comfort us, relieving us of stress. No words, just experience, just God and God alone. Yes, we enjoy the big powerful displays God bring forth, but God makes it clear in this event, God prefers good, appropriate communication. God brings peace (Mt 5:9). Elijah liked to do things big: causing drought (1 Kings 17:1), highly dramatic confrontation (1 Kings 18:22-24 ), calling fire (2 Kings 2:10). Sometimes high drama makes for high drama (1 Kings 19:2). Drama we dont need (Galatians 6: 7-9). God allowed Elijah to proceed as he did, but never told him to do those things. Maybe through this event, God showed him what it was like to have all that high-drama coming at him. Not helpful, especially when done to someone who is hurt and afraid. Better to deal with people, respectfully, humbly, than overdo it.
Pray with me..., Holy God keep us mindful that it is by Your grace that we proceed in life. Your love for us infuses everything You do with us, and for that we are thankful. Hear or praise and petition for those we love. Bless them O God according to their needs. We ask Your blessing on our church. May we be blessed, so we can bless others. In Jesus' name, Amen.
God's peace,
Pastor Brian
