A Daily Devotional with David Olatona — TURNING TO GOD IN THE ODD
Main Text
1 Kings 18:20-25
Watchword
Then you call on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the LORD; and the God who answers by fire, He is God.” So all the people answered and said, “It is well spoken.” 1 Kings 18:24 NKJV
The prophet display faith and trust in God here as he put God and himself on the line before the gathered nation of Israel. Elijah learned this faith and trust over the many months of daily dependence on God, both at the Brook Cherith and at the widow’s house at Zarephath. Of course, Elijah had plenty of reasons for confidence in the LORD God. First, he was following express instructions from the LORD (1 Kings 18:36). Second, he knew from the history of Israel that God could and would send fire from heaven upon a sacrifice (Judges 6:20-21 and 2 Chronicles 7:1-3).
The people here were persuaded only but not yet converted because they came to a point where they were at least willing to decide. That willingness to choose is a move toward faith because it shows an openness to allow God to work. If we are really open to God’s work in our lives, willing to base our decision for God on God alone, then we will most often choose God. The church has no greater task than to move people toward a willingness to choose and then trust God and His grace with the rest.
We should note that Elijah did not himself try to convert the people to belief in Israel’s God. He did bring them to a point where they were ready to decide. For the people to make no choice meant they would go on serving Baal. Not choosing for God is to choose against Him.
*Confession*
Oh Lord purify our hearts as you refresh our spirit and strengthen our resolve to give us peace.
*Prayer*
Heavenly Father strengthen our faith as we live in accordance to your word and ways. Amen.
*Additional Reading*
1 Chronicles 21:26
Leviticus 9:24