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Out Of The Cave

He ran with all his strength to the southern most part of the land, into Judean territory, and deep into the wilderness. They were all after him or maybe it was just the evil Queen Jezebel; even so, he was still outnumbered, thousands to one. Finally, stealing rest and finding sleep, he's nourished with hot bread and fresh water. Now, Elijah climbs the mountain of God to find refuge. There in the darkness of a cave, he pours out his heart to God, "I am all alone in this world, despite all that I have tried to do; the people kill your prophets, tear down your altars, and forsake your ways . . . I am the only one left." Covering his face with his mantle, Elijah steps to the front of the cave after a ferocious wind, an earthquake and fire storm have passed him by. Fearfully, he repeats the same words again, he is all alone in this desperate, frightening world. God's response is quiet as a reassuring breeze. There is still work to be done, kings to be anointed, and a successor for your work to be complete. Besides, Elijah, there really are over 7000 people left in your land that have not followed other gods. The reality is you are not alone.

There is no recorded response of Elijah, the reader is left wondering if the words brought comfort or even peace to his very troubled heart. There is also nothing written about his actions in anointing future kings. He does, however, find his successor, Elisha, but seems to be less than enthused with him. His response in all of this seems to be "whatever . . ."

I too find myself in dark caves, tired and weary of doing what is right. Doubting in the dark is easy, and stepping into the light, I still can cover my face to keep me dark. But there are tasks to complete, life choices to be made, and much more righteous living to do. Truth be told, I'm not alone, there is One who walks beside me, with me, and even carries me when I'm too weak. My faith is renewed and strengthened not by hiding in a cavern, but by living out of the cave . . .

"Though I walk in the midst of trouble, Thou wilt revive me; Thou wilt stretch forth Thy hand against the wrath of my enemies, and Thy right hand will save me. The Lord will accomplish what concerns me. . . "
(Psalms 138:7-8)

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