August 6 The Lord's Word

1 Kings 17:2 And the word of the Lord came to him

IN our previous lesson, we learned how the name "Lord" (some translations print it as "LORD") defines God as the eternally existent "I AM", whose sovereign authority reigns over the universe he has created. In this understanding, let's focus on Elijah receiving "the word of the Lord" as it came to him. Have you ever considered how this simple sentence reveals a remarkable miracle? Think about this: The eternal I AM has acted to speak to his creation. Purposefully, the Lord comes to speak of himself so that you will know him. Knowing him, you will know his ways. Knowing his ways, you will know the way to life everlasting.

           Is this not a profound miracle? I suppose being aware of this miracle is what marks my life and causes me to do what I do. I cannot fully comprehend that God would offer himself to me as completely as he has. He has urged me to read his Bible. Through the reading of his Word, I have come to know him more intimately each day. My response, when he speaks to me, can only be, "Yes, Lord."

           But, yes, there are days when I prefer to say, "No, Lord." I don't like what he points me to do, so I find something else or nothing else to do. I neglect his ways and avoid his teachings because I become too uncertain, uncomfortable and complacent. On those days, I must pause to consider again the miracle of God's Word come so clearly to tell me who is Lord.

           We will see how Elijah responded to the Lord's word. He will deal with some very hard circumstances. Many times we will be ready to say, "No, Lord." as evil rears its deadly head. To overcome his self-view, Elijah will need to empty himself of the voices of self-pity and pain to, instead, be filled with I AM's holy voice - a voice that cannot be denied.

           I pray you realize the miracle of God's word come to you. I hope you fight through your self-view to view God's Bible as a great miracle for your life. In awe and wonder, give thanks to God for (Ephesians 1:9) "making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ."

Prayer: Lord, thank you for your Word. Give me listening ears. In Jesus' name, amen.