“God used the drought to lead Elijah to new places of ministry –
places that brought hope and life to others.”
I want to share this biblical account of Elijah with you. It will encourage you to look for fresh and fruitful places of ministry that God has been preparing you for. A time for you to lead others into hope.
“The story of Elijah begins in 1 King 17 when God sent the prophet to give a bold message to King Ahab, the reigning King of Israel who had been doing evil in the eyes of the Lord. ‘As the LORD, the God of Israel lives, whom I serve, there will be neither dew nor rain in the next few years except at my word.’” Then, at the prompting of the Lord, Elijah went into hiding. I think it’s important to point out here that even Elijah had to endure the drought. He was provided for, but not kept from the strain and struggle just because he was living for God. Deep thirst, and hard times impacted Elijah’s days just like yours and mine. Droughts and difficulties are a reality for all of us.
God kept Elijah hidden for about three years. After the brook dried up due to lack of rain, the Lord sent Elijah to the home of a God-fearing single mom… a widow. Circumstances were bleak and food was extremely scarce. Yet, in spite of the desperate times, God had a fresh and fruitful mission for Elijah as he ministered to her and her son.
The Lord didn’t simply want Elijah to survive the drought, He wanted him to serve and trust Him in the trenches of it. God used the drought to lead Elijah to new places of ministry – places that brought hope and life to others – places where he had to walk with fresh faith in the unfamiliar.” Excerpts from Gwen Smith.
This “drought” that we may find ourselves in or anything blocking our path can keep us unsteady and defenseless, but it shouldn’t. God blessed Elijah in this desperate place and He wants to bless us too. Kelly Minter shares, “God specializes in sowing seeds into the soil of our hardship, seeds that bring forth prolific life and bear fruit in season.” As we walk in the strength of His Holy Spirit He wants to strengthen, bless and give you hope today.
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