TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
“I have not made trouble for Israel,” Elijah replied. “But you [Ahab] and your father’s family have. You have abandoned the Lord’s commands and have followed the Baals. Now summon the people from all over Israel to meet me on Mount Carmel.” 1 Kings 18:18-19
Read: 1 Kings 18:1-46
Listen: 1 Kings 18
TODAY’S MESSAGE
It was a showdown greater than anything UFC has ever offered. On one side of Mt. Carmel was Israel’s King Ahab and 450 prophets of Baal. On the other side stood only Elijah—the prophet of Yahweh and the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Watching the showdown, with the best “seats” on the mountain, were the people of Israel. Their “front row seat” offered them a view both of the showdown and the Jezreel Valley.
In most years, this valley was Israel’s breadbasket. But not this year or the previous year. In fact, the nation had been in a drought for three years. Land that was usually lush, green and productive was now parched, brown and barren. Everyone gathered on that mountainside knew something was wrong. As a result, the only question that mattered on this day was, “Who’s going to send the rain?” It was time for Israel to choose a direction.
This week we’re going to join Israel “front row, center,” as we see the direction they were pursuing and the “silence” of Baal. We’ll also see how Elijah calls them back to the God who sends the rain.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Welcome God into your week with a prayer of confession similar to this one, “Heavenly Father, in those areas where I’m wavering, I need your help. Help me to be open to following you with my whole heart. In Jesus name, Amen.” Also, download this week’s lock screen to remind you of God’s desire for you to choose well.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
