1 Kings 18:36-40 – To make Him known

In 1 Kings 18:36-40, it was Elijah’s turn to demonstrate and prove that he served the true God. He was none other than the Covenant God of Israel. The altar had been repaired and prepared in such a way that it would be impossible for fire to consume the sacrifice apart from the LORD whom Elijah served. He had deliberately planned it that way. His thrust was to let all of Israel know that without Yahweh, there would be no Israel. Trusting Yahweh absolutely, Elijah was confident that He would come through for him.

When the time for burning the evening sacrifice had arrived, he drew near to the altar and made a passionate plea to the covenant God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel. Earnestly he pled with God to respond to his cry so that the people would know that God had engineered their repentance. As Elijah had anticipated, verse 38 recorded, “Then the fire of the Lord fell and consumed the burnt offering and the wood and the stones and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench.” Everything on the altar was consumed by the fire that came from heaven. Elijah was right all along. On seeing what just took place, the people fell on their faces immediately and exclaimed, “The Lord, He is God; the Lord, He is God.” Elijah then commanded the people to seize all the prophets of Baal and let no one escape. He led them to the brook Kishon and had them slaughtered there. It was a triumphant moment for Yahweh and Elijah.

In his prayer, Elijah made his deep desires known. His desire firstly was for everyone to know that the Covenant God of Israel alone was the true God. Secondly, he wanted the people to know he was the servant of this true God. And thirdly, everything he had done was according to Yahweh’s word and instructions. In summary, Elijah’s desire was for the reputation of Yahweh, the authenticity of his ministry, and the word of the Lord to be affirmed.

One thing we can take away from these verses is the manner and attitude of Elijah in his approach to prayer. His was a God-centered prayer. He wanted God to have all the glory and for all to know that He alone deserves the allegiance and worship. How about us? How should we approach prayer? In prayer, remember to seek the establishment of His Kingly rule, that His will be done, and His glory be shown. He alone deserves it! Praise His glorious Name!