In the story of Elijah, we witness a powerful truth that often resonates in our lives. In 1 Kings 18, Elijah calls down fire from heaven, demonstrating the power of God by defeating the 450 prophets of Baal. However, in the very next chapter, we see Elijah running for his life, terrified by the threats of Jezebel. This shows us something profound: the enemy, the Devil, isn’t afraid of the power of God—he is terrified of the presence of God.
There is a vital distinction between the power of God and the presence of God. So often, we seek the power of God to fix our problems, believing that if His power shows up, everything will be solved. But when we don’t immediately see the results, we feel lost or defeated. Like Elijah, we sometimes don’t realize that it is God’s presence, not just His power, that sustains and strengthens us.
Jezebel didn’t flee in fear when Elijah called down fire from heaven. Instead, she doubled down, threatening to kill him. Similarly, in our lives, the challenges we face may not disappear even after we’ve experienced God’s power. But the key is in understanding that while the Devil may not fear God’s power, he trembles in the presence of God.
When we plead the blood of Jesus, it doesn’t just invoke His power—it invites His presence to surround us, to fight on our behalf. Elijah, after fleeing, realized his own strength was insufficient, and he asked God to take his life. But in that moment of despair, God did something important: He nourished Elijah. Just as He nourished Elijah physically, God desires to feed us spiritually, through His Word and through His presence.
The more we seek and rest in God’s presence, the more peace and strength we find. Elijah found peace not in another display of power, but by listening for God’s still, small voice. In that quiet moment, victory and peace were waiting. Jesus said, “My sheep know my voice” (John 10:27). Today, if you are in need of peace, stop searching for the power to fix your situation, and instead, listen for God’s voice. It’s in His presence where you’ll find the peace you’re searching for.
Are you looking for something uplifting to listen to? Check out the “Making An Impact Christian Podcast Show,” available on all major music platforms. Let it be a source of encouragement as you seek God’s presence in your daily life.
