ODJ: Presence in the Seasons

December 18, 2016 

READ: 1 Kings 19:1-21 

After the earthquake there was a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire there was the sound of a gentle whisper (v.12).

For seven years, I was at home fulltime with our kids. While I did freelance work to bring in some income, I enjoyed the flexibility and routine of that season. Meals were normally served on time, I was able to deep clean my house regularly, and I enjoyed throwing baby showers and other ways of blessing others. When I returned to fulltime work, my state of normal changed, and I had to shift my expectations.

Psalm 1:1-3 tells us, “Oh, the joys of those who . . . delight in the law of the Lord . . . . They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.” The reality, however, is that every season doesn’t feel or look the same—even for those who “delight in the law of the Lord.” And while it is true that believers in Jesus can learn to be content in various circumstances (Philippians 4:11-12), some seasons require greater adjustment than others.

In 1 Kings 18:1-46 we find God doing amazing things through Elijah, even to the point of him being able to outrun Ahab’s chariot (v.46). A short time later, however, the prophet found himself fearing for his life, struggling to understand the plan of God, and seeking shelter in the wilderness (19:3-4). He struggled to see the reason for the challenges he was facing.

We can feel the same way at times. The season suddenly changes, and we can’t seem to find our bearing. For Elijah, the answer came as he experienced God’s presence not in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in the “gentle whisper” (19:11-12). Appearing in the chaos, it reminds us of the Holy Spirit being alive in us. God invites us to wrap ourselves in His presence and trust in His purposes.

—Regina Franklin

365-day plan: Hebrews 12:1-13