"I have not made trouble for Israel," Elijah replied. "But you and your father’s family have. You have abandoned the LORD’s commands and have followed the Baals. Now summon the people from all over Israel to meet me on Mount Carmel. And bring the four hundred and fifty prophets of Baal and the four hundred prophets of Asherah, who eat at Jezebel’s table." — 1 Kings 18:18-19
Where does Elijah get his courage? He flatly contradicts King Ahab. He sets the record straight. He accuses Ahab of ruining the country. And then he issues an order to the king, and fully expects him to obey it.
Jesus said, "Apart from Me, you can do nothing." Elijah here certainly could have done nothing without the LORD granting him authority. You don’t just go up to the highest authority in the land and start issuing orders unless and until you represent something or Someone bigger than yourself.
One of the ways God manages a fallen world is through successive layers of authority. In any case, whether governments, families or fallen angels, Jesus is always at the top of the organizational chart.
When I was 20 years old, I became a parole and probation officer. At first, it seemed very strange to issue instructions to hardened criminals who were twice my age. But I came to understand that it wasn’t me issuing the orders. The State of Ohio issued those orders. I was just the spokesman for the state.
When God wants something accomplished, He will grant us all the authority we need to get the job done. Courage will come as God enables us to understand the assignment and the authority He has granted each of us.
Be encouraged!
Dwight
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