Topical Bible: Prudence: Elijah, in his Escape from Jezebel

◄ Prudence: Elijah, in his Escape from Jezebel ►

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Introduction

Prudence, a virtue characterized by wisdom, foresight, and careful judgment, is exemplified in the biblical narrative of Elijah's escape from Jezebel. This account, found in 1 Kings 19, highlights the prophet's discernment and reliance on divine guidance during a time of great peril. Elijah's actions demonstrate the importance of prudence in the face of threats and uncertainty.

Context

Elijah, a prophet of the Lord, had just achieved a significant victory over the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, as recorded in 1 Kings 18. This triumph, however, incited the wrath of Queen Jezebel, who vowed to take Elijah's life. "So Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, 'May the gods deal with me, be it ever so severely, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your life like that of one of them'" (1 Kings 19:2). Faced with this threat, Elijah's response was marked by prudence.

Elijah's Flight

Recognizing the danger posed by Jezebel, Elijah prudently chose to flee. "Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there" (1 Kings 19:3). His decision to escape to Beersheba, a location outside of Jezebel's immediate reach, reflects his understanding of the situation and his desire to preserve his life for future service to God.

Divine Guidance and Provision

Elijah's prudence is further demonstrated in his reliance on God's guidance and provision during his escape. In the wilderness, feeling overwhelmed and despondent, Elijah prayed for death. Yet, God provided for him through an angel, who offered sustenance and encouragement. "Suddenly an angel touched him and said, 'Get up and eat.' And he looked around, and there by his head was a cake of bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water" (1 Kings 19:5-6). Elijah's acceptance of this divine provision underscores his trust in God's wisdom and care.

Journey to Horeb

Continuing his journey, Elijah traveled to Mount Horeb, the mountain of God. This destination was not chosen at random; it was a place of historical and spiritual significance, where Moses had encountered God. Elijah's decision to seek refuge at Horeb reflects his prudence in seeking divine counsel and renewal. "There he went into a cave and spent the night. And the word of the LORD came to him: 'What are you doing here, Elijah?'" (1 Kings 19:9). This encounter with God at Horeb provided Elijah with the direction and reassurance he needed to continue his prophetic mission.

Conclusion

Elijah's escape from Jezebel is a testament to the virtue of prudence. His careful assessment of the threat, reliance on divine provision, and strategic retreat to a place of spiritual significance illustrate the importance of wisdom and foresight in navigating life's challenges. Through Elijah's example, believers are reminded of the value of prudence in aligning one's actions with God's will and purpose.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 19:3,4
And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there.
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Library

'Constrained by the Word'
... An Elijah to-day beards Ahab and Jezebel and all ... and to-morrow hides his head in
his hands, and ... is no small part of Christian wisdom and prudence to recognise ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture the acts/constrained by the word.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Kings xvii., xviii., where the conflict between Elijah and the ... as if he feared to
see him escape from vengeance ... the very time of Sisera's death, his people were ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria
... to Egypt, had not been able to escape from acknowledging ... sea, while the Phoenicians,
with their wonted prudence, hastened to anticipate his demands"Tyre ...
/.../chapter ithe assyrian revival and.htm