The Study and the Pulpit 1 Kings 17:2-7 And the word of the LORD came to him, saying,… I. MEN MUST BE PREPARED TO ACCEPT THE CONSEQUENCES OF THEIR OBEDIENCE TO GOD. We do not always see such consequences, and when they come upon us they very often find us unprepared to meet them. Obedience to God often exposes men to hatred, scorn, ridicule, opposition, inconvenience, loss of trade, loss of liberty, and even life itself. But when we chose God's service we chose these consequences, and when they come they should not deter us from our duty. Daniel, when he knew that the law was passed, condemning to the lions' den any who should pray except to the king for thirty days, went into his chamber and prayed as aforetime. Peter and John determined to obey God rather than man, notwithstanding the threat of stripes and imprisonment. II. THAT GOD MAKES PROVISION FOR THE EXIGENCIES INTO WHICH OBEDIENCE TO THE DIVINE COMMANDS MAY BRING HIS SERVANTS. He imposes no task but He provides strength for its accomplishment. Whatever may be the con. sequences of their obedience, He will not leave His servants to meet them alone. III. THIS PROVISION IS FREQUENTLY NOT MADE KNOWN TO THE OBEDIENT UNTIL THEIR NEED IS PRESSING. When the drought comes upon the land, God will not forsake His people; but His voice shall be heard directing them to Cherith, where their need shall be amply provided for. (The Study and the Pulpit.) Parallel Verses KJV: And the word of the LORD came unto him, saying, |
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