Then Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, “So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I do not make your life as the life of one of them by tomorrow about this time.” And when he saw that, he arose and ran for his life, and went to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there. (1 Kings 19:2-3 NKJV)
Do you recall a spiritual mountaintop victory? I just returned from the Proclaim conference where God showed off His faithfulness and much more. Whenever I didn’t know where to go, God provided another conference attendee to show me the way. When elevator buttons overwhelmed me as a blind woman, God provided a Proclaim sister or another guest.
Fatigue hits me harder with each passing year. When the adrenalin stops, we crash. God reminded me that the devil prowls about, looking for a point of attack (1 Pet. 5:8). While my heart remains full, and I force my eyes to stay open, I remain watchful.
Elijah had experienced one victory after another for several years. Perhaps, he didn’t expect a season of defeat, because He wasn’t looking for it. When it hit him, he catapulted into a downward spiral.
The evil queen Jezebel threatened to kill Elijah because he had executed her beloved false prophets of Baal. She knew the message would hinder Elijah’s prayers and strike him with fear.
Unprepared for the defeat following the victory, Elijah ran afraid for his life. He isolated himself, leaving his servant behind in Judah. Then he continued on his journey, alone. He traveled another day into the wilderness and collapsed under a tree. Then, this mighty prophet of God begged God to take his life.
Elijah sank into a pity party. The guests included disappointment and unmet expectations. All of this was brought on by the threat of one queen.
The devil hasn’t changed much, so when we experience the mountaintop, we realize at some point, we must go down into the valley.
Friend, have you recently experienced a spiritual victory? Maybe the defeat after victory has already hit. Perhaps, you can’t remember your last victory.
Whatever the case, always remember, you have a stalker who seeks to bring you down and keep you down. Remind yourself to be on the alert.
Heavenly Father, I dress in my armor ready for the attack. I put on the belt of Your truth and the breastplate of Your righteousness. My feet are shod in the shoes of Your peace. You surround my mind with the helmet of salvation. I carry my shield of faith and the Sword of the Spirit. Thank You for preparing me to fight spiritual warfare. In Jesus’s name. Amen.
DIG DEEPER
HIKING THE TRAIL
How has defeat made a surprise attack on you? Were you prepared? How could you be better prepared?
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Originally posted on February 21, 2022 @ 3:00 am