Elijah has been hidden for three years. The wicked king Ahab sought the nations for him. The drought was so bad that it was destroying the kingdom. When God sent Elijah to meet with the monarch, the king referred to him as “the troubler of Israel.” It’s amazing how the world sees the saint as the bad one. Some societies today scream out against “the intolerant Christians.” There will always be a cry against the righteous who uphold integrity and truth. If you represent the LORD and hold Him to the highest standard, the world will detest you and blame you for the problems caused by God’s judgments. Elijah had come to show God’s kindness, in the form of rain.
He corrected the record by telling Ahab that he and his family were the source of the trouble in Israel. Why? They had disobeyed the LORD’s commandments and followed Baal. If God allowed rain when the people relied on Baal for it, He would be encouraging them to believe a lie. God’s mercy delayed the rain. The guilty frequently point fingers at those who are attempting to bring God’s grace and mercy into a given situation.
There are instances when a brother will deliver a harsh word. We must assess whether it is valid or if we are being attacked for our integrity. A heart that is soft toward God will quickly recognize the difference. Ahab didn’t have such a heart. I believe, by God’s grace, you and I do.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me to stand for truth and righteousness no matter what the world calls me. Help me deliver your grace to a desperate world.
