The narrative of escaping to the wilderness from the fierceness of Jezebel is a significant episode in the life of the prophet Elijah, as recorded in the Old Testament. This event is primarily found in 1 Kings 19 and serves as a profound moment of divine encounter and renewal for the prophet.

Context and Background

Jezebel, the wife of King Ahab of Israel, was a Phoenician princess known for her zealous promotion of Baal worship in Israel. Her influence led to widespread idolatry and the persecution of the prophets of Yahweh. Elijah, a prophet of the LORD, stood in direct opposition to Jezebel's agenda, culminating in the dramatic confrontation on Mount Carmel, where Elijah called down fire from heaven to consume the sacrifice, proving the LORD's supremacy over Baal (1 Kings 18:20-40).

The Threat of Jezebel

Following the victory at Mount Carmel, Elijah ordered the execution of the prophets of Baal. In response, Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, threatening his life: "So may the gods do to me, and even more, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your life like the lives of those you killed" (1 Kings 19:2). This threat instilled fear in Elijah, prompting his flight into the wilderness.

Elijah's Flight to the Wilderness

Elijah's escape to the wilderness is a journey marked by fear, exhaustion, and despair. He traveled to Beersheba in Judah, leaving his servant there, and continued a day's journey into the wilderness. In his desolation, Elijah sat under a broom tree and prayed for death, saying, "It is enough, now, O LORD, take my life, for I am no better than my fathers" (1 Kings 19:4).

Divine Provision and Encounter

In the wilderness, Elijah experienced God's provision and care. An angel of the LORD appeared to him, providing sustenance in the form of bread and water, strengthening him for the journey ahead (1 Kings 19:5-7). This divine intervention highlights God's faithfulness and care for His servants, even in their moments of deepest despair.

Elijah's journey continued for forty days and forty nights to Horeb, the mountain of God, also known as Mount Sinai. Here, Elijah took refuge in a cave, where he encountered the LORD in a profound and personal way. The LORD's presence was not in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a gentle whisper, demonstrating that God's voice often comes in quietness and stillness (1 Kings 19:11-12).

Renewal and Commissioning

In this encounter, God addressed Elijah's feelings of isolation and fear, revealing that there were still 7,000 in Israel who had not bowed to Baal (1 Kings 19:18). God then commissioned Elijah to anoint Hazael as king over Aram, Jehu as king over Israel, and Elisha as his prophetic successor (1 Kings 19:15-16). This commissioning reaffirmed Elijah's role and purpose, providing him with renewed strength and direction.

Significance

Elijah's escape to the wilderness from Jezebel's threat is a testament to the challenges faced by those who stand for God's truth in the face of opposition. It underscores the reality of spiritual warfare and the need for divine strength and guidance. The narrative also illustrates God's intimate care and provision for His servants, offering hope and renewal even in the most trying circumstances.1 Kings 19:1-18
And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and with how he had slain all the prophets with the sword.
Nave's Topical Index

Of Antichrist, and his Ruin: and of the Slaying the Witnesses.
... shake kingdoms; that made the world as a wilderness, and destroyed ... the cup of the
wine of the fierceness of his ... so in wrath, that not one escapes by repentance ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/of antichrist and his ruin .htm

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