God Doesn’t Mess Around….

In 1 Kings chapter 18 we read the story of Elijah and the 450 prophets of Baal. The contest on Mount Carmel is full of interesting and entertaining events. But why would Elijah even present this challenge to King Ahab, for he wanted Elijah dead? The purpose of this challenge is stated in verse 21. The purpose was to make the people choose which G(g)od to serve. They were serving many gods. How would this apply to modern day America? Well, are there many gods being served here in America? Do people go to “Church”, but serve a different god from the One in the Bible? When Jesus spoke about not being able to serve two masters, does that apply here? Elijah knew, and the people witnessing this contest learned that God doesn’t mess around. He will not tolerate people half-heartedly serving Him while giving their devotion to other fictitious gods. Look what happened to the 450 prophets of Baal? Is this your fate as well? Redirect your devotion to the only One worthy of our worship; you’ll save yourself an eternity of pain and suffering when you do. Put God to the test, but remember, you’re motivation must be real, it must come from a true and sincere heart. God knows if your heart is genuine. If it is, prepare yourself to begin a journey that will involve losing yourself in the process.

21 Then Elijah stood in front of them and said, “How much longer will you waver, hobbling between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him! But if Baal is God, then follow him!” But the people were completely silent. 1 Kings 18:21

36 At the usual time for offering the evening sacrifice, Elijah the prophet walked up to the altar and prayed, “O Lord, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, prove today that You are God in Israel and that I am Your servant. Prove that I have done all this at Your command. 37 O Lord, answer me! Answer me so these people will know that You, O Lord, are God and that You have brought them back to Yourself.”38 Immediately the fire of the Lord flashed down from heaven and burned up the young bull, the wood, the stones, and the dust. It even licked up all the water in the trench! 39 And when all the people saw it, they fell face down on the ground and cried out, “The Lord–He is God! Yes, the Lord is God!” 1 Kings 18:36-39