In what ways can we show God's power to others, as Elijah did? Setting the Stage at Carmel “At the time of the evening sacrifice, the prophet Elijah stepped forward and said, ‘O LORD, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, let it be known this day that You are God in Israel and that I am Your servant and have done all these things at Your command.’” (1 Kings 18:36) Key Truth from 1 Kings 18:36 • The event is historical—fire literally fell from heaven. • Elijah’s confidence came from knowing he stood on God’s direct command. • His aim was singular: that people would recognize “You are God.” Ways We Can Display God’s Power Today • Bold, God-Centered Prayer – Elijah prayed publicly and specifically. – Acts 4:29-31 shows the early church asking for boldness; God answered with shaking and Spirit-filled witness. • Unwavering Obedience – Elijah rebuilt the altar “at Your command.” – John 14:21: “Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me…” Obedience positions us for God’s visible work. • Clear Public Testimony – “Let it be known this day.” – Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Speak and act so credit points to Him. • Calling People to Decision – Elijah asked, “How long will you waver…?” (v. 21). – Acts 2:38-41: Peter calls listeners to repent; thousands respond and God’s power is seen in transformed lives. • Expectant Faith Aligned with Scripture – Elijah saturated his altar with water, removing human explanations. – James 5:17-18: Elijah’s faith withstood drought and deluge; our confidence rests on the same unchanging promises. • Relying on God’s Timing – He waited for “the time of the evening sacrifice.” – Galatians 6:9 encourages patient perseverance; power often comes in God-appointed moments, not ours. • Giving God the Whole Credit – “That You are God…that I am Your servant.” – 1 Peter 2:12: when observers “glorify God,” His power has been rightly displayed. Supporting Scriptures • Mark 16:20 — the Lord confirmed the preached word “by the signs that accompanied it.” • Psalm 115:1 — “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to Your name give glory.” • Romans 1:16 — the gospel itself is “the power of God for salvation.” Take-Away Actions 1. Pray specifically for God to reveal Himself through your life this week. 2. Seek out a concrete act of obedience already revealed in Scripture. 3. Share a personal testimony that points listeners to Christ, not to you. 4. Invite someone to respond to the gospel, trusting the Spirit to work. 5. Record and recount answered prayers, giving all glory to God so others see His hand. |
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