After the earthquake, there was fire—but the LORD was not in the fire. After the fire, there was a tiny whispering sound. When he heard this, Elijah hid his face in his cloak and went and stood at the entrance of the cave. -1Kgs 19: 12-13.
Friends, God is good all the time!
According to the Webster dictionary, steadfastness refers to adhering to something we have become bound to by pledge or duty. If so, Christian discipleship requires us to be steadfast to the Lord because of the promise we make at our baptism when God becomes our father, and we become His children. Scriptures give us explosive examples of steadfast people. And you know, Hebrews 13:7-8 urge us, "Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." The same God these men and women remained steadfast in Him is still the Lord of Christians today.
Elijah's prophetic journey is a fascinating model for Christians. He was a great and authentic prophet, one whose words, requesting God to do anything, was so valid. Yet, he faced difficulties and trials that caused him to flee from his usual place of domicile. God’s response to the chaotic life he was experiencing was one of calmness and assurance. God appeared in the gentle breeds and spoke to him to assure him that it shall be well; he must remain steadfast.
The example of Peter and the apostles in the chaotic sea experience, and the saving act of Jesus towards Peter when he almost drowned, supports the appeal to remain steadfast and see how God responds. The gaze of Peter on Jesus instrumentally explains why he was able to walk on the sea. By the same token, taking his gaze off Jesus, Peter nearly got himself drown.
As Christians, we must understand that God acts swiftly to save us amid fire, heavy winds, and earthquakes of life. God never utilizes thunder, heavy storms, or earthquakes to react to the same phenomena. He uses gentle, calm means. When our lives are engulfed in chaos, we must open the doors of the heart to Him to come in and say to us, "It is I; do not be afraid." Finding quiet place to listen to the Lord, allowing your family and friends to assure you of God’s love and presence through them are good ways to get help.
Jesus' hand is not too short towards anyone. It reaches far enough to save us from any mess, difficulties, trials, hardships. We need to act like Peter and say, Lord, if you are near, let me know and experience your saving acts. But we must also not act like Peter in the sense of submitting to the overwhelming troubles and doubt what God can do. We must remember that any personal journeys as Christians are not going to be easy. But if we can swim against the current towards Jesus, He will stretch out His hands to save us.
Prayer blessing: Lord, you sent the Holy spirit to enlighten our hearts and remove the shadowy experiences that mess up our lives. May He keep transforming us until we’re what you desire. Amen.