THE HIGHS: REMEMBER (1 Kings 17:1-9; 1 Kings 18:1-2,17-45)

In 1 Kings 17, Elijah confronted Ahab, the wicked king of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, who led the nation into idol worship. Elijah prophesied a severe three-and-a-half-year drought that would affect everyone, including himself. Astonishingly, even during this period of drought, Elijah experienced remarkable encounters with God. Despite the scarcity of water, God provided for Elijah by leading him to a brook that served as a water source, and ravens brought him bread and meat twice a day. When the brook eventually dried up, God assured Elijah that a Gentile widow would sustain him throughout the famine. This teaches us that even during challenging times, we can experience significant spiritual highs with God.

After three and a half years, Elijah proposed a challenge to Ahab. He gathered all of Israel, including the false prophets, at Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:17-20). Elijah urged the people to choose whom they would follow. The subsequent showdown resulted in an incredible victory for God through Elijah. It was undoubtedly a high point in Elijah's life. He fervently prayed, and rain was miraculously restored. This story reminds us that God abundantly blesses us when we take the time to recognize and remember His goodness and faithfulness (Psalm 103:1-5).

THE LOWS: RUN TO GOD (1 Kings 19:1-18)

Upon hearing about Elijah's successful confrontation, Ahab’s wicked wife Jezebel threatened to kill him (1 Kings 19:1-2). Elijah knew that Jezebel had already murdered many prophets, so her threat carried weight. Like us, Elijah found it easy to forget the high points when faced with low moments. Suddenly, the low point became overwhelming, and fear consumed him. Elijah fled, leaving his servant behind, and even contemplated giving up on life.

Elijah sought refuge at Horeb, also known as Mount Sinai, where Moses had received the Ten Commandments. There, Elijah encountered God and poured out his heart to Him. Surprisingly, God's presence was not in the mighty wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a gentle whisper. God spoke to Elijah and gave him a meaningful assignment: anointing Jehu and Elisha, indicating that his mission was not yet complete. God reassured Elijah that he was not alone, reminding him that 7,000 faithful men had not bowed down to the false god Baal. This highlights the importance of redirecting our thoughts towards God's goodness, as it can lead to a shift in our emotions and actions. Meditating on God's faithfulness becomes a source of strength and encouragement during difficult times, reminding us that God is always present, offering comfort and guidance.

THE FINISH: REST ASSURED (1 Kings 19:19,21; 2 Kings 2:11-12)

Elijah faithfully followed God's instructions. He passed on his leadership mantle to Elisha (1 Kings 19:19, 21) and concluded his life with a glorious ending (2 Kings 2:11-12).

Hebrews 12:1-2 encourages us to continue running the race of life with endurance. To finish well, we should remember the high points, celebrating God's faithfulness and the victories we have experienced. During the low points, it is crucial to seek refuge in God, relying on His strength and guidance. Ultimately, our focus should always be fixed on Jesus, who serves as the perfect example of endurance and is the ultimate source of our hope and motivation.