1 Kings 18:7-16 – Serving God unwaveringly

Sent by Ahab to look for pasture to maintain his horses, mules, and herd of cattle, Obadiah was on his way. Frist Kings 18:7-16 said that he ran into Elijah who was sent by the Lord to announce to Ahab the end of the drought. Obadiah immediately recognized Elijah who did not deny that it was indeed him. He then sent the latter to go and tell Ahab that he was in town. As far as Ahab was concerned,  Elijah was a menace and he had been searching for him unsuccessfully. We are told that Ahab did not only search for Elijah in Israel but also in all the surrounding countries. But all his attempts were fruitless. For when God protects a person, it is impossible to locate him. That’s the extent of God’s preserving power.

Deep in his heart, Obadiah knew the risk of having to face Ahab’s wrath should the wicked king not be able to locate Elijah when told of this presence in town. He was afraid that God would hide Elijah again after he had announced the news of the prophet’s arrival to Ahab. Obadiah had earlier jeopardized himself when he shielded one hundred prophets from Jezebel and fed them.  He was reluctant now to put his life in danger again. However, Elijah could see that Obadiah was as petrified as he was assured. He then promised him that he would not do the disappearing act. Having been assured, Obadiah then went to Ahab and broke the news to the wicked king that Elijah was in town.   

It is true that serving God always involves some risks. Though we may not have to face death like him, we all run the risk of being ridiculed, labored as fanatics, and even being ostracized. The reason is simple. It is because the value of God’s Kingdom is not the same as that of the rest of the world. People often do not treat the truth of God kindly. But we should not be deterred by such opposition. Let’s be confident that if God is for us who can be against us. Paul assured us that nothing can ever separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. We are more than conquerors through Him who loves us. Let us serve Him unwaveringly! We will never lose!