The Question for Elijah.

Elijah was a mighty prophet of God, one of the greatest who ever lived. Yet, even he could become discouraged and fearful. When Jezebel announced she would have Elijah killed he ran into the desert to hide. He ran until he became hungry and tired; he sat under a tree and asked God that he might die, then fell asleep.

God sent an angel who woke Elijah and said, "Arise, eat." When Elijah looked there was warm bread and a jar of water. This happened twice, he regained his strength and went further into the wilderness until he found a cave in which to hide.

Now God himself appeared and asked Elijah a question, "What are you doing here, Elijah?"

Elijah explained to God all that had happened and told God he was the only person left in Israel who believed in him and they wanted to kill him. But God told him he was wrong, there were 7,000 people in Israel who had not worshipped Baal (an idol that demanded human sacrifice).

He then asked again, "What are you doing here, Elijah?" He asked this because he had not sent Elijah into the desert. He had not told him to flee Jezebel. He now told him to return to Israel and Elijah obeyed.

I love how God deals with his people. He is so patient and understanding. "May everything that breathes praise the Lord!"