Attention to the details

“Now summon all Israel to join me at Mount Carmel, along with the 450 prophets of Baal and the 400 prophets of Asherah who are supported by Jezebel. ” So Ahab summoned all the people of Israel and the prophets to Mount Carmel.” 1 Kings 18:19-20 (NLT)

We are given stories in the Bible as examples. Some of the stories we blow through and others we read more carefully.  Sometimes we become so familiar with them., we can miss the why or how they can be important for our daily lives.

I’ve always been drawn to the stories about His prophets. In I Kings 18, we can see Him against the prophet of Jezebel.  The losers would forfeit their lives.  After taunting them false prophets, it was his turn.   Elijah called to God to have fire consume the bull upon the alter.  After dousing the alter with water, in the time of drought,  God miraculously responded.

“Then Elijah commanded, “Seize all the prophets of Baal. Don’t let a single one escape!” So the people seized them all, and Elijah took them down to the Kishon Valley and killed them there.”  1 Kings 18:40 (NLT)

All was consumed. In chapter 40, verse Elijah called for the people to seize the false prophets and have them killed. A few verses we see Elijah running from queen Jezebel. She had called for his death, and Elijah was on the run, so much so, he slipped into a deep depression and prayed to die.

The prophet had missed something. He had slayed the 450 prophets of Baal, but what of the 400 prophets of Asherah who are supported by Jezebel?  It seems Elijah in his zeal had only accomplished half of what he was to do. He left an opening for the Witcraft sting of depression to poison him.

Father God,  
We thank you for the Biblical examples you have given us; both sets point to Jesus, our ultimate example. Make us mindful of your clear direction and the strength you provide for us.  Help us be mindful of Jesus. He has completed all we need;  Yet there remains more for us to accomplish. Help me to hear clearly when you are speaking to me. To willingly go forward with what you have.

Let both my attitude and actions reflect your ways. Keep me safe from myself and the enemy, always seeking Jesus.  AMEN