Fresh off of a brilliant victory over 400 prophets of Baal,

Elijah’s spirit is shredded by the threatening words of the wicked queen, Jezebel. There are some interesting lessons to be learned here:

1.Don't underestimate the power that women hold over men.

Part of Eve’s curse was that her desire would be for her husband. Twisted by corrupted human nature, much evil has been accomplished by weak men under the carnal influence of domineering women. Elijah successfully overcame a multitude of pagan priests but was reduced to a crust of bread by Jezebel’s threats. Pastors and leaders of the church must be aware that they, too, can be easily manipulated and overcome by Jezebel’s disciples today.

2. Observe the path of the fearful prophet

1. First, fleeing to Beersheba (the same place Hagar was ostracized to by Abraham).

2. Next, he leaves his servant; discipleship is cast aside, training ceases, and the future of his ministry is put in doubt.

3. Then he goes ALONE into the wilderness to throw himself a pity party (no one else is ever invited).

4. Lastly, Elijah asks the Lord to take his life, surmising that his usefulness for the Kingdom has been sapped. No doubt the enemy is whispering a bevy of lies to his isolated mind.

IT IS NOT GOOD FOR MAN TO BE ALONE!

Fear has the ability to stop the work of a church and leader’s ministry in very short order. But thanks be to God that He is able to restore struggling saints!

Get up and eat!