Elijah - God's Mountain Man

Elijah Needs Encouragement (English) 8.6.23

Pastor Dan Rautenberg
Key thought: Even at our lowest and in despair God still comes to us with his care and comfort. Elijah should have been riding high after God’s triumph on Mount Carmel. Yet his decision was to run for his life from Jezebel. He was in despair. He was afraid. He was exhausted. Ironically, Elijah then wants God to end his life. God does not answer his request but comes to him with loving concern to care for him. God gently restores Elijah’s health. Then he provides a reality check for his prophet. Elijah was not alone. Elijah still had work to do. God does the same for all of his children who are struggling. He comes to us in Word and Sacrament. He sends others to encourage and provide clarity in the darkness. God’s love for his children is eternal.
Sunday, August 6, 2023

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Elijah - God's Mountain Man

In chapter 5, James writes, “Elijah was a human being, even as we are.” Really? Elijah and I are the same? Scripture reveals a man who fearlessly proclaimed God’s judgment even in the face of death. I often remain silent in fear of sharing the message of the triune Lord. Elijah stood in defiance of King Ahab and his thoroughly evil Queen Jezebel. I walk away from confronting evil with the pure Word and will of God. Elijah prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops. (James 5:17-18). Meanwhile there are days I cannot find time or the desire to pray. Yet we are all the same in one respect. We are human beings that the Lord calls to service in his kingdom. In this sermon series we will learn how God’s dealings with Elijah can strengthen our faith and service to him.