More practical thoughts on Elijah

The “Elijah complex” can rob you of power and joy, so beware! Elijah went from victory to defeat because he started walking by sight and not by faith (19:3). He believed the queen’s words but not God’s word, and he forgot how God had cared for him for three and a half years. Fear replaced faith, and he ran for his life.
He became concerned about saving himself rather than giving himself (Mark 8:34–38; John 12:23–28). Note the sequence (chp. 19): “thy life” (v. 2), “his life” (v. 3), “my life” (v. 4). If he had said, “Take my life,” as an act of surrender to God, the Lord would have worked mightily; but his “Take my life” was a confession of pride and defeat. Beware when you think you are the only faithful one left!
God taught Elijah that He does not always work in the dramatic big events, like the contest on Mount Carmel, but that He works by means of a “still small voice,” ministries that are neither big nor loud. Elijah was not forsaken, for God was with him. He was not alone. Seven thousand people had not bowed to Baal. His work would go on. You see, God had a young man ready to take his place.
We need to obey these words: “Be not afraid; only believe” (Mark 5:36).