Standing on the Mountain

Press the play button to watch the video above or press 'more' to read the transcript of the daily devotion below. Please read 1 Kings 19:1-19 (use your own Bible or use the link above to access the in-App Bible).

‘He said, ‘Go out and stand on the mountain before the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.’ 1 Kings 19:11

In the school where I work I have a bright yellow banner emblazoned across the wall of my office that states “I am never down, I am either up… or getting back up.” This is a timely reminder for me that whatever comes my way, with God I have His constant love, support and guidance in the joyous times and in the challenges life brings. When the difficult times come, being in His presence, leaning on Him to provide means I will get up again.

In this passage from Kings, Elijah felt really down and was reliant on God to ‘get back up.’ He had been working hard to show the Israelites God’s way, but most were not listening even after God performed wonders where there could be no doubt of His power. He had got to a point where he was afraid, weary and in despair. Elijah felt he was the only one ‘zealous for the Lord.’ Elijah is running for his life feeling alone… and his prayer? He prays to die, he is ‘done’; his prayer is simple and has such honesty.  God’s response was to provide rest, an angel to wake him, and food and drink to renew his strength and motivation.

But God wasn’t finished, He sent wind, an earthquake, and fire yet it was recognising and listening to God’s quiet voice that was important. In verses 12 and 13 it says “…after the fire a sound of sheer silence. When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave.” God spoke and gave him specific instructions to anoint Jehu king over Israel and Elisha to succeed Elijah as a prophet. Elijah obeyed what God told him to do. His prayers show that he was honest, reliant and recognising God’s voice listened and obeyed.

At the end of this passage we see the call of Elisha who carried the mantle of Elijah and worked to keep Israel focused on God. Elijah passes to Elisha prophetic authority. During this time of Lent whatever our circumstances God invites us to be in His presence, to be in relationship with Him and to listen to His gentle whisper. 

Let us pray: Father God whether I am up or getting back up strengthen me with a renewed passion to do your will; like Elijah help me to recognise your gentle whisper, listen and obey. Amen.

Jen Palfrey, Subject Lead for RE, St Michael’s Chorley & ALM Hesketh with Becconsall.