TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Answer me, Lord, answer me, so these people will know that you, Lord, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again.”1 Kings 18:37
Read: 1 Kings 18:20-46
Listen: 1 Kings 18
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Dry earth cracks beneath the Israelites’ feet. The valley, usually rich with crops, lies barren due to a three-year drought and famine. Tension swirls like dust in the air as people line up to take sides. The prophet Elijah calls for a showdown between the true God and Baal, the regional god of crops and prosperity. Long ago, God clearly warns Israel his blessing is not unconditional, and he will withhold rain and crops if they turn to worship other gods (Deuteronomy 11:16-17). Their spiritual arrogance believes God will bless them despite their disobedience.
God provides many blessings. He blesses us with birth and the beauty and joy of his created world. He blesses belief and welcomes us into his family when we accept his gift of salvation through Jesus. God also blesses behavior. He grows us to become more like Jesus as we obey God’s word and allow his Spirit to work in us. We experience fruits such as love, joy, peace, patience and self-control even when situations aren’t ideal. While God’s love is unconditional—his blessing is not. God may use “droughts” to call us back to him if we walk away.
We cannot expect God’s blessing if we disregard his word. We may expect God is obligated to get us out of tough times. But God may desire to use that season to move us from spiritually STUCK to STARTED with him. Not all droughts are the result of our behaviors or decisions. Spiritually STARTED means we draw close to God deeply trusting him and understanding he alone can meet our needs.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Consider your assumptions about God and ask him to reveal any inaccuracies. “Father, you are a good God who generously blesses us. Forgive me for where I have assumed you should do something, and my inaccurate views of who you are. Help me follow you and obey your word. Amen.”
2022 BIBLE MEMORY PRACTICE
Develop spiritual roots and tap in the power of God’s word by memorizing monthly a Bible verse!
PSALMS 119:11
I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
