“What have I done wrong,” asked Obadiah, “that you are handing your servant over to Ahab to be put to death? – 1 Kings 18:9

For Meditation

When God moves to restore people, it is spectacular to watch. He dazzles and instructs. Israel experienced this in a contest between Elijah and the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:1-40). 

Idolatry was rampant in the nation under King Ahab and drew the wrath of God. Through the prophet Elijah, God declared a three-and-a-half-year drought over the land. Three years later, Elijah met Obadiah, the king’s palace Overseer, and asked him to arrange for him to meet Ahab. With shaking hands and knocking knees, Obadiah protested: 

“What have I done wrong… that you are handing your servant over to Ahab to [to kill me]?”

That feeling happens when we ascribe too much power to human beings and diminish the power of God. Every situation threatens, and at such times, we need the assurance of God. Elijah, therefore, assured Obadiah on oath, and Obadiah went to call the king (1Kings 18:9-15).

It is interesting how people reckon the bearer of God’s judgment to be their enemy rather than looking at themselves in the light of His word. Ahab finally met Elijah and ripped into him, accusing him of troubling Israel (17), but Elijah would not have it. 

“I have not made trouble for Israel… But you and your father’s family have. You have abandoned the Lord’s commands and have followed the Baals.”

Elijah did not mince words. He let the people know the truth about themselves and their responsibility to God (18-19).

Leaders do well when they present their people with alternatives and allow them to make choices. It positively transforms them. For when they discover the truth, it renews their minds and strengthens their decisions and actions. So, Elijah confronted the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel and challenged Israel to choose between God and Baal (20-21).

Baal disappointed his prophets for hours as they called on him to display his power, but not God. When Elijah prayed, the fire of God dramatically fell and consumed his sacrifice (38). 

God’s timing is impeccable! He revealed His glory to Israel by the fire, and they shouted: 

“The Lord—He is God! The Lord—He is God!” (39).

When He shows up, He shows off in a way no one can deny His Majesty. That is the Mighty God we serve! He manifests His presence to convict people of their sins and opens the door to His heart for repentance and healing. 

Do you know Him? Have you experienced His grace in Christ Jesus? Are you living for His glory?

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ rest upon you and uphold you and your household in every way, Amen!