There is such a parallel between the days of Elijah and our modern day. Israel was governed by Ahab, who was dominated by Jezebel. She was the power behind the throne and the proponent of Baal and Asherah. Idolatry, immorality, murder, hatred and conspiracy reigned in the heart of Israel’s governing duo. The nation, established by Jehovah, was now bowing to the god of Jezebel. The breach between God and His people had reached its greatest divide.
While there seems to be no hope of Israel returning to Jehovah, there arises an “unknown” man. Unknown to Ahab and Jezebel; unknown to the media of that time; unknown to the Israelites, but not unknown to God. Bursting on the scene in the midst of the declination is Elijah, whose name means “My God is Jehovah”. There is no introduction, no warm and friendly politically correct verbiage… just his “right to the point” declaration, “”As the Lord God of Israel lives before whom I stand, there will not be dew or rain these years except by my word” (1 Kings 17:1b).
Note the words, “Before whom I stand.” We stand before God when we pray. He had lived a life standing before God. It was his secret life of praying that enabled him to be clothed with such power and authority. His position “in front of God” placed him in front of the king. And when he said, “no dew or rain these years,” there was no rain or dew beginning that very day. Elijah had such a burden on his heart to see his nation return to Jehovah that he was willing to stand alone in the gap. He was willing to take a bold stand for God in a day of mediocrity and compromise, even if it cost him his life.
History is repeating itself as we see the same system playing out in our society today. Our government is corrupt; we are serving false gods; our land is filled with bloodshed; idolatry is embraced; our churches have faded into the background taking a neutral position; many Christians are more politically correct than biblically correct; we are calling good evil and evil good; people are doing what is right in their own eyes; we have lost our way because we are in the dark; we have strayed from our Founding Fathers’ standards of upholding the Bible and prayer and declaring Jesus Christ as the Lord over America.
Now is the time for Elijah to arise! Who is Elijah of today? Not one, but a remnant of people who will declare, “As the Lord God of Israel lives before whom I stand.” This remnant is not afraid to be bold and take a stand against the evil that prevails. This remnant does not care about pleasing the masses but obeying God and fulfilling His commands. This remnant cares so deeply for the nation that its members are willing to be ridiculed and persecuted for the sake of revival.
Let Elijah arise. The time for revival is now! {eoa}
Sharon Bolan Yerby’s evangelistic and prophetic calling has impacted multitudes around the world. Her message emphasizes the kingdom of God, the crucified life and the person and power of the Holy Spirit. With over 17 years in ministry, she continues to herald the uncompromising gospel of Jesus Christ with passionate pursuit through healing crusades, radio and television. The vision for her life and ministry is Philippians 3:10-14.
